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State Memorial for Richard Scolyer Set for July 13 at Sydney Opera House

The service recognizes a leading melanoma researcher whose public battle with glioblastoma highlighted experimental immunotherapy.

Overview

  • His family confirmed the State Memorial Service will be held at the Sydney Opera House on July 13 at 11am with doors opening at 9:30am and limited free public tickets to be released on the Opera House website.
  • Professor Richard Scolyer died from cancer on June 7, 2026, at the age of 59 after a three‑year fight with glioblastoma.
  • Prime Minister Anthony Albanese previously announced Scolyer would receive a state funeral and government listings say the memorial will include tributes from family, friends and dignitaries.
  • Scolyer was a world‑leading melanoma pathologist whose work helped save thousands of lives and who underwent a world‑first neoadjuvant immunotherapy for brain cancer based on the melanoma science he helped develop.
  • His family published a posthumous letter asking to be remembered as a 'proud everyday Aussie who gave it a crack' and officials have encouraged donations to brain cancer charities in lieu of flowers.