30 years of heart, hope and healing
On 27 February 2026, the Hunter Children’s Research Foundation (HCRF) officially marks 30 years of funding life-changing medical research. Since its inception in 1996, our 100% volunteer-run organisation has raised over $2.65 million to improve the lives of children in the Hunter and across the globe.
"When we first started HCRF 30 years ago, it was an opportunity to use our own networks to help these amazing researchers make discoveries that can truly change a child’s life," says.
A vision born from community
Founded by Janelle Shakespeare OAM and Lorraine Gardner OAM, HCRF was created with a singular, powerful vision: to support local researchers tackling paediatric health challenges.
By collaborating with experts at the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI), HCRF provides the critical early-stage funding that allows scientists to conduct initial trials. These seed projects often lead to multi-million-dollar national grants, meaning every dollar raised by our local community has a massive global impact.
In 2022 Lorraine and Janelle were awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for the work they’ve done with HCRF.
"Today, our annual Lunch For The Kids has become synonymous with our name. We live in a community rich with an attitude towards giving back."
Humble beginnings from a vineyard tour
From their very first fundraiser to the signature Lunch For Sick 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!"
Our first goal for 2026: helping children with EoE
Eosinophilic Oesophagitis is a painful condition that can make the simple act of eating a fearful and heart-breaking experience for children. Our 30th-anniversary mission is to fund research that improves the treatment and monitoring of this condition, giving these children their childhood back.
You can help kids like Felix by donating here.
30 years of impact: fast facts
- • We’ve raised over $2.65million to help researchers get their ideas from a bookshelf into real impact for kids in need.
- • We’ve continued to remain 100% volunteer run by a committee of passionate individuals.
- • We still very proudly have Janelle and Lorraine, who give their time so passionately towards making a difference.
- • Our next Lunch For The Kids is already booked in – prepare for your invite to your inbox.
- • We look forward to another year of impact and to many more decades helping create meaningful change for kids and their families in the Hunter and globally facing serious health conditions.
