QIMR Berghofer 80th Anniversary Gala Dinner

$1 million raised for medical research — thank you for making it possible!

On 1 November 2025 — exactly 80 years since the Queensland Institute of Medical Research Act came into effect — we gathered in style to celebrate our extraordinary legacy and the future of medical innovation.

Held at the Royal International Convention Centre, the sold-out black-tie gala brought together more than 450 guests to mark eight decades of life-changing research that has improved the health and wellbeing of millions across Australia and the world.

Hosted by award-winning science communicator Bernie Hobbs, the evening featured a keynote address by the Honourable Tim Nicholls MP, Minister for Health and Ambulance Services, a three-course dinner with premium beverages, and vibrant entertainment from The Little Red Company led by Naomi Price.

It was a night of reflection, inspiration, and generosity — raising vital funds to advance QIMR Berghofer’s research in cancer, infectious diseases, brain and mental health, ensuring a healthier future for generations to come.

Read more about the Gala Dinner

Featuring:

Keynote

Keynote

Address from Hon Tim Nicholls MP, Minister for Health and Ambulance Services

MC

MC

Award-winning science communicator Bernie Hobbs

Read more about Bernie here

Entertainment

Entertainment

Live music and entertainment from the Little Red Company

Read more about The Little Red Company.

Our Sponsors

Thank you to our sponsors for their support and commitment to medical research.

Discovery Sponsors

Celebration partners

Activation parters

QIMR Berghofer 80th Anniversary Gala Dinner

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I purchase tickets over the phone?

Unfortunately, we are unable to process any payments over the phone. All tickets must be purchased online through our secure ticketing portal. Visit qimrb.edu.au/galadinner and follow the links to purchase a ticket or a table.

2. Are there any additional discounts available?

All tickets are priced as listed.

3. Can I reserve tickets and pay later?

All tickets must be paid for in full at the time of booking. We are unable to hold or reserve unpaid tickets.

4. Can I pay by bank transfer, cash, or invoice?

Tickets must be paid for via the online payment system using a credit or debit card. We are unable to accept alternative payment methods.

5. I’m buying multiple tickets for my organisation. Can I speak to someone about that?

Multiple tickets (less than 10 individual tickets) can be purchased online, and need to be processed online and paid in full at time of purchase.

6. I’m buying multiple tables (more than 2) for my organisation. Can I speak to someone about that?

We’d be happy to assist with group bookings for more than two (2) tables, please contact us directly via events@qimrb.edu.au.

7. I have a dietary or accessibility requirement – how do I let you know?

You can note any dietary or accessibility requirements during the ticket booking process. If you have any further concerns, please contact us directly via events@qimrb.edu.au

8. What is the dress code for the event?

The dress code is Black Tie. This is a great opportunity to dress up and celebrate 80 years of QIMR Berghofer.

9. Where is the gala dinner being held, and is there parking
available?

The Royal International Convention Centre (Royal ICC) is located at 600 Gregory Terrace Bowen Hills. Paid parking is available
close by, at the Pavilion Car Park, Royal ICC Car Park or King Street parking.

Bowen Hills and Fortitude Valley train stations are less than a 10 minute walk.

10. What time does the event start and finish?

Pre-dinner drinks start at 6:00pm with the formal proceedings commencing at 7:00pm. The evening will go through to 11:45pm with the official program concluding around 9:45pm.

11. Will I receive a physical ticket or is it all digital?

Physical tickets will not be issued. All confirmations and event information will be provided via email.

12. Can I sit with my friends or colleagues?

Absolutely!
Just send us an email at events@qimrb.edu.au with the
names of the people you'd like to sit with, and we’ll do our best to seat you together.

13. What is included in the ticket price? (e.g., meals, drinks,
entertainment)

Your ticket includes a delicious three-course meal, a selection of beverages, and an evening filled with entertaining performances and engaging presentations.

14. Is the event accessible for people with disabilities?

The Royal International Convention Centre is wheelchair accessible on both levels and designated car parking spaces are located on ground level. Wheelchairs are also available from the Royal ICC team.

Individual accessibility restrooms are located on both the upper and lower levels of the convention centre and there is one ambulant toilet within each bathroom location.

15. Are dietary requirements catered for?

Yes, absolutely. Please let us know your dietary requirements when booking. If you’ve already purchased your ticket and need to update your details, just email us at events@qimrb.edu.au before 15 October.

16. What happens if I can no longer attend – are tickets refundable or transferable?

Tickets are non-refundable, but they are transferable. If you can no longer attend, you’re welcome to pass your ticket to a friend or colleague – just let us know their name and contact details at events@qimrb.edu.au so we can update the guest list.

17. Is there a fundraising component or charity auction during the evening?

Yes!
We’ll have an exciting charity auction and other fundraising activities throughout the night, so bring your generosity and get ready to make a difference while having fun.

18. Is there a theme or entertainment program for the evening

We’re taking a trip back to the 1940s—the very decade when QIMR Berghofer began its journey. The night will include fabulous music and entertainment, brought to you by The Little Red Company.

19. Who can I contact if I have further questions?

Please email events@qimrb.edu.au for all further queries.

$1 million raised for medical research — thank you for making it possible!