On 27 February 2026, the Hunter Children’s Research Foundation (HCRF) will officially mark three decades of funding life-changing medical research for children.

Since its inception in 1996, the 100 per cent volunteer-run organisation has been dedicated to improving children’s health in the Hunter region and across the globe, raising $2.65million over that time to help fund critical research.

Founded by Janelle Shakespeare OAM and Lorraine Gardner OAM, HCRF was born from a shared vision to support local researchers tackling paediatric health challenges in collaboration with experts worldwide. This critical early support allows Hunter-based scientists working from Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) to conduct initial trials that often lead to multi-million dollar national grants, amplifying the impact of every dollar raised by the community.

While the foundation is deeply rooted in the Hunter, the research it funds – specialising in areas such as asthma, cancer, mental health, and premature birth – has reached far beyond regional borders to influence pediatric healthcare globally.

Founder, Lorraine Gardner said although the approach to fundraising has changed over the time, the heart of the organisation remains the same.

“When we first started HCRF 30 years ago, it was an opportunity to use our own networks to help these amazing researchers make research discoveries that can truly change a child’s life and outcomes,” Lorraine said.

“Today, our annual Lunch For The Kids has become synonymous with our name and is always a sell-out. We live in a community rich with an attitude towards giving back and making a difference. Over the years we’ve collaborated with and met amazing people who have contributed all they can to change a life.

“It’s an honour and privilege to keep that journey going as we enter our thirtieth year working with a volunteer committee of amazing individuals, our always supportive sponsors and partners, and the team at HMRI who make the impossible possible.”

In 2022 Lorraine and Janelle were awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for the work they’ve done with HCRF.

From their very first fundraiser to the signature Lunch For The Kids, the goal has always been the same: to turn dreams into discoveries.

“Our journey began with a modest fundraising event in 1996. It was a trip to the vineyards and raised $800. Last year at our Hunter Construction Group Lunch For The Kids held in the vineyards and through our other fundraisers we raised a remarkable $150,000,” Janelle said.

“We’ve come a long way – but we have plenty more we want to achieve!

“A key focus for us this year is raising $30,000 by August 2026 to fund one of our targeted research grants for a project that will improve treatment and monitoring of Eosinophilic Oesophagitis, a heart-breaking and painful condition which can make eating a fearful experience for children.

“We hope to achieve our goal and help make this important research possible.”

To learn more about the Hunter Children’s Research Foundation and how you can support its work during this milestone year, visit www.hcrf.org.au.

IMAGE: HCRF’s Committee celebrating at their 20 year anniversary 10 years ago.