QUEENSLAND'S 2017 Australian of the Year awards candidates heading to Canberra later this month are keeping the “smart state” tagline alive.
Queensland Australian of the Year, biomolecular scientist Professor Alan Mackay-Sim, 65, is an international leader in stem cell research, giving hope to thousands of Australians with spinal cord injuries.
In 2014 his research played a central role in the world’s first successful restoration of mobility in a quadriplegic man, using neural stem cells from the nose.
“Miracles have been achieved through the pursuit of basic science,” Professor Mackay-Sim told The Senior.
“This (award) recognition raises the importance of scientific research to advance clinical therapies and awareness that we can do it, here in Australia.”
Professor Mackay-Sim’s work also has application for Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia and hereditary spastic paraplegia.
Neuroscientist Professor Perry Bartlett, 69, Queensland’s Senior Australian of the Year, is the man who proved brain cells do regenerate. He continues to explore ways to reverse memory loss in ageing.
“I hope my legacy gives me a long life with better mental health,” Professor Bartlett quipped on receiving his title from Premier Anastacia Palaszczuk.
“It was thought we were born with only so many brain cells and that they declined or died as we aged, end of story. “I didn’t agree and I have been proved correct.
“We now understand that the brain is very plastic, changing all the time. We’re now focusing on how to reinvigorate brain cells to reverse conditions like dementia.”
Queensland’s Young Australian of the Year Taj Pabari, 17, a young inventor who only finished school in November, continued the “smart state” innovative theme.
Multicultural champion Yasmin Khan, known for her efforts to create understanding of Muslim diversity and cultures, will represent Queensland in the Australia’s Local Hero category.
Australian of the Year award winners will be announced in Canberra on January 25.
