A prominent public swimming facility in Sydney's inner west is set to be renamed in honour of the late Professor Richard Scolyer, recognising the extraordinary contributions he made to cancer research, medical science and the Australian community. The decision comes just days after the renowned pathologist's death at the age of 59 following a courageous battle with brain cancer.
The Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre will be renamed the Richard Scolyer Aquatic Centre after councillors in Sydney's Inner West voted to support the proposal. The move aims to ensure the legacy of one of Australia's most respected medical researchers remains permanently connected to the community in which he lived and worked.
Professor Scolyer was internationally recognised for his groundbreaking work in melanoma research. Alongside his long-time colleague, Georgina Long, he helped revolutionise the use of immunotherapy treatments for advanced melanoma, contributing to dramatic improvements in survival rates for patients around the world. Their achievements earned the pair the title of Australian of the Year in 2024.
In 2023, Professor Scolyer was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive and often fatal form of brain cancer. Rather than accepting conventional treatment alone, he became the first patient to undergo an experimental immunotherapy approach based on melanoma research principles he had helped develop. His willingness to participate in the world-first treatment provided valuable scientific data that researchers hope will improve outcomes for future brain cancer patients.
Despite being given a prognosis of only a few months, Professor Scolyer survived for almost two years after his diagnosis, using that time to advocate for cancer research, support patients and raise awareness about brain cancer. His journey inspired Australians and people around the world who followed his battle with the disease.
Following his death on 7 June 2026, tributes flowed from across the medical community, government leaders, former patients and members of the public. In a final open letter released after his passing, Professor Scolyer thanked Australians for their support and encouraged future generations of researchers to continue pushing scientific boundaries in pursuit of better treatments and cures.
Supporters of the renaming proposal said the aquatic centre would serve as a lasting reminder of a man whose work transformed cancer treatment globally while remaining deeply connected to his local community. The venue's new name is expected to become a permanent tribute to a scientist whose influence extended far beyond Australia.
For many Australians, Professor Scolyer's legacy will not only be measured by the thousands of lives improved through his research, but also by the courage and optimism he displayed throughout his own cancer journey. The renaming of the aquatic centre ensures that legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
