I would like to give a shout out to some local legends in my electorate of Newcastle who have been announced as finalists for the 21st annual health and medical research awards.

Professor Kelvin Kong AM, from the University of Newcastle, has been named as an advocacy award finalist for his role in improving health outcomes for First Nations people, particularly regarding the ear health of children in remote communities.

Associate Professor Nicole Nathan, also from the University of Newcastle, has been named as a finalist for the health services research award for her expertise and dedication as a health promotion practitioner, and her role in establishing the Hunter New England region as a hub for locally developed innovation.

Mark and Kirralee Hughes, from the Mark Hughes Foundation, have been named finalists in the philanthropy award. The foundation raises much-needed funds for research, creates awareness and supports brain cancer patients and their families. To date, the Mark Hughes Foundation has raised close to $30 million.

These prestigious awards honour the remarkable achievements of talented individuals and teams who drive innovation and advancements in health and medical research, enhancing all of our lives.

Thank you, Professor Kong, Associate Professor Nathan, and Mark and Kirralee Hughes, for your extraordinary efforts. Award winners will be announced at a ceremony in November. I wish you all the very best of luck.