Australian researchers honoured on international stage

Two pioneers of stroke in Australia have been recognised for their contribution to stroke recovery and research at the World Stroke Congress in Singapore.

Stroke Foundation Board Director and Chair of the Clinical Council Professor Bruce Campbell won the World Stroke Organization Award for Contributions to Clinical Stroke Research, while Former Chair of the Research Advisory Committee and member of the Clinical Council, Professor Julie Bernhardt AM, was awarded the Barbro B Johansson Award in Stroke Recovery.

Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sharon McGowan congratulated both Professor Campbell and Professor Bernhardt for their dedication to stroke research and thanked them for their services over the years.

“It’s a privilege to be in Singapore for the first face-to-face conference in four years and see Professors Campbell and Bernhardt recognised for their efforts in front of their peers,” Ms McGowan said.

“Stroke Foundation has a long-standing relationship with these two leaders in stroke. Their tireless work has made a difference in improving stroke treatment and recovery in Australia, and undoubtably improved many lives.”

Professor Campbell is a consultant neurologist and Head of Department and Head of Stroke at the Royal Melbourne Hospital. He was recognised for designing and publishing multiple trials that have revolutionised the outlook for patients with severe stroke and rapidly translated into guidelines globally and clinical practice.

“Professor Campbell is incredibly hard-working and such a champion of Stroke Foundation’s work. I am thrilled to see he has been recognised on the international stage,” Ms McGowan said.

Professor Bernhardt is a clinician researcher, National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Established Fellow and Senior Principal Florey Research Fellow at The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health.

She has been working with survivors of stroke for the past 30 years. Ms McGowan said Professor Bernhardt spearheaded the first Stroke Rehabilitation and Recovery Roundtable which is setting new agreed standards for stroke recovery and research.

“Professor Bernhardt's innovation and commitment to stroke recovery is widely recognised in Australia and internationally, it’s just such a privilege to work alongside her,” she said.

The World Stroke Congress attracts over 2,500 people and showcases the latest in clinical trials, and updates on the latest guidelines. To find out more, visit the website.