International Clinical Trials Day is held each year on 20 May to honour the people who make medical research possible. 

To mark the occasion, Grampians Health hosted a special thank-you morning tea on Friday, 16 May in Ballarat, honouring the individuals who have participated in clinical trials at the health service.  

The morning tea brought together around100 clinical trial participants, carers, and staff to recognise the people behind the progress in medical research. These unsung heroes are helping to shape the future of healthcare – not only for themselves, but for communities nationally and internationally. 

“Clinical trials are an essential part of the healthcare system,” said Professor Matthew Hadfield, Grampians Health Chief Medical Officer. “They help us offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments closer to home, improve existing therapies, and find better ways to prevent and manage illness.  

But none of it is possible without the incredible generosity of those who volunteer to take part. We are deeply grateful for our clinical trial participants contribution to research that benefits countless others and are honoured to provide a small gesture of appreciation for the big role they have played in helping shape the future of healthcare.” 

With about 100 clinical trials currently open, Grampians Health is proud to host the largest clinical trials unit in western Victoria.  

Clinical trial participant, Mrs Diane Connolly, is one of more than 1,200 people who have taken part in a Grampians Health clinical trial. For Diane, a clinical trial offered hope and support when she needed it most. 

After receiving a devastating lung cancer diagnosis in March 2023, Diane was offered an opportunity to participate in a Grampians Health clinical trial testing new treatments aimed at improving patient outcomes. Diane enrolled in the Phase Three study for Stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) the following month. 

Over the past two years, Diane has undergone treatment with the support of her clinical trial coordinator, whom she describes as her “new best friend.” 

“Our experience throughout my cancer journey was made so much easier by being on a clinical trial,” Diane said. “I was treated as a friend rather than a patient. The nurses were incredible -they made everyone feel special. The clinical trial exceeded our expectations.” 

“I am extremely grateful for the opportunity and encourage everyone to go on a trial where and when they can. It may not work, but it worked for me. Accept the opportunity if it comes your way otherwise you are doing yourself, and the community, a disservice. It is just so important,” said Diane. 

Research is a central focus at Grampians Health, with a strong culture of innovation embedded across its sites in Ballarat, Horsham, Edenhope, Stawell and Dimboola. 

“Our team is powered by purpose,” said Professor Hadfield. “We are united by a commitment to improve health outcomes through research.” 

This International Clinical Trials Day Grampians Health invites the community to reflect on how they can make a meaningful impact – from considering participating in a study, supporting a loved one in a trial, or learning more about the role of research in regional Victoria. 

For more information about clinical trials at Grampians Health or how to get involved, visit www.bhs.org.au/research