ASCN Newsletter Winter 2004
Renewed Funding for NSCC
Last week, the Prime Minister John Howard announced a second round of funding for the National Stem Cell Centre as a part of the Federal Government?s ?Backing Australia?s Ability?. The Prime Minister committed $55 million to the NSCC for the period of 2006 until 2011. This should enable Australia to maintain its internationally competitive position in stem cell science. More specifically, it will allow the NSCC to follow through on its various research projects, commercialisation negotiations and education / public awareness programs. The NSW Stem Cell Network looks forward to being part of this renewed momentum in stem cell science.
Highlights from the 4th Stem Cell Workshop
Over 80 members from the Network attended the recent Stem Cell Workshop focusing on Spinal Cord and Neurological Disorders. Some of the highlights included presentations by the duo from up north, Dr. Rod Rietze from Institute for Brain Research, University of QLD and Professor Alan Mackay-Sim from Griffith University in Brisbane. Monash Medical Centre's, Prof Mal Horne also had some excellent work. The locals, Prof Bruce Brew and Prof Anne Cunningham presented fascinating research, the latter including videos of spinning "neurospheres". An update on Stem cell policy was presented by Ms Kerry Doyle from the NSW Ministry for Science and Medical Research. She announced that the Minister Frank Sartor has agreed to provide the NSW Stem Cell Network financial support for the next 3 years. Spinal Cure Australia, the major sponsor for the event launched their new logo after recently changing its name from Australian Spinal Research Trust.
Photos from the 4th Stem Cell Workshop, March 16 2004
Speakers from the 5th Stem Cell Workshop
L-R Prof Bruce Brew, Dr Rod Reitze, Dr Tony Coulepis, Prof Bernie Tuch (Co-convenor), Prof Alan Mackay-Sim and Prof Simon Gandevia
Speakers Absent: Prof Anne Cunningham, Dr Adrienne Torda, Ms Kerry Doyle and Dr Paul Brock
Chatting over cocktails at the end of the day
Dr Paul Brock and Ms Kerry Doyle
Thanks to Debbie Reedsman from the Ministry for Science and Medical Research for the photo of speakers at the Workshop
Major Sponsor is delighted with the outcome
Mr Bob Turner, Spinal Cure Australia and