ANZSA Newsletter- March 2025

Message from the CEO of ANZSA

Welcome to our first newsletter for 2025! With the launch The Great Sarcoma Plankathon, the planning of our Annual Scientific Meeting underway and applications open for our 2025 grant programs, the year is already off to a busy start.

Already we have seen many outstanding achievements in advancing sarcoma research and awareness in the greater community.

Thank you for your ongoing support of ANZSA as our team continues to focus on delivering high-quality sarcoma research and clinical trials by working closely with our clinicians, researchers, and consumers.

ANZSA Strategy Workshop 

Last month, the ANZSA staff, members of the Consumer Advisory Panel, and the Board gathered in Sydney for a strategy workshop. This year, we will be developing a new strategy document to outline our goals for the next three years. The workshop was a great success, fostering collaboration and bringing together diverse perspectives to shape our future direction. We look forward to finalising this document, with your help in 2025.

Sarcoma Research Grants 2025

ANZSA is offering two Sarcoma Research Grants with support from our generous donors to support Sarcoma Research. Two grants of up to $50,000 each are for direct research costs to improve both early detection and therapy for sarcoma. The grant (commencement date July 1st, 2025) is offered for 12 months at the end of which, the proposed work must be completed. 

While the objective is to support the best possible research into sarcomas, there are some areas of particular priority that the ANZSA encourages for this grant such as translational studies and projects that can leverage these result into successful large grant applications.

Applications for a 2025 ANZSA Sarcoma Research Grant must reach the ANZSA Office by 5pm Friday 2nd May 2025 via email. Please email applications and supporting paperwork tojasmine.mar@petermac.org. 

To learn more about the requirements and to apply please visit our website.

The Great Sarcoma Plankathon

This July, alongside our Sarcoma Awareness Campaign, we will host our inaugural fundraising event: The Great Sarcoma Plankathon.  At ANZSA, we are proud of our dedicated community and their efforts to raise awareness and funds for sarcoma research. We appreciate your support in this fight against sarcoma.

The need for increased research is urgent, as many treatment options have remained unchanged for over 40 years. That’s why we’ve launched the Great Sarcoma Plankathon to help make a difference. 

We need your support! Get your sports teams, gyms, coworkers, schools, and families involved in this incredible initiative! Sign up today.

To view more and stay up to date, please follow us on our social media – Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook.

Annual Scientific Meeting

Join us this year for the 2025 ANZSA Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) on the 10th – 11th of October in Tasmania!

This years’ meeting will feature both in-person and online attendance for all who wish to attend.

Event Details:

• When: Friday 10th – Saturday 11th of October 2025
• Venue: Crowne Plaza Hobart

Stay tuned for registration, speaker and program details which will be made available shortly.

Research Updates 

LMS Biomarker Clinical Study: 

The Chris O’Brien Life House has enrolled its first patient in the LMS Biomarker Clinical Study. In collaboration with investigators from the University of Michigan, this study aims to examine whether ctDNA (circulating tumour DNA) in the blood can be used as a biomarker to help predict the benefits of chemotherapy for Leiomyosarcoma patients.

Myxoid Liposarcoma (MLS) Registry: 

In collaboration with The Netherlands Cancer Institute, the Myxoid Liposarcoma (MLS) Registry aims to fill gaps in our current knowledge about the best treatment strategies for MLS. Currently, the study is open at 6 sites across Australia, with the Queensland site at The Princess Alexandra Hospital reaching its first milestone by enrolling its first patient.

The ReLaPSe Study: 

The ReLaPSe Study is now open at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre! This international study being led by ANZSA aims to answer the important question of which treatment option (surgery with or without preoperative radiotherapy) is best for patients diagnosed with recurrent retroperitoneal Liposarcoma.

QUEST Clinical study:

The Quality of Life and Experiences of Sarcoma Trajectories (QUEST) has met its recruitment goal. This essential study aims to improve the diagnostic journey for sarcoma patients and ultimately enhance their outcomes. This study is in collaboration with our UK and Dutch partners.

New Research Results for Osteosarcoma Treatment!

Using Chimeric Antigen Receptors (CAR) technology with Natural Killer (NK) cells offers a fresh and potentially more effective approach to treating aggressive paediatric and adult sarcomas.

This groundbreaking study was supported by funding from the 2021 ANZSA Sarcoma Research Grant, awarded to Doctor Fernando Guimaraes from The University of Queensland for his project titled ‘Development of a Natural Killer Cell-Based Immunotherapy for Rhabdomyosarcoma’. This work was made possible with generous contributions from Kicking goals for Xav, Stoney's Steps, and Stop Sarcoma.

Read the article here.

Sarcoma Stories

Last month we shared the inspiring story of a young family from Port Macquarie. Their unique story is a blend of resilience, bravery, and love as they face the challenges of Spindle Cell Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer. Thank you to Laura and James for sharing their story with us!

Read their story here.

We’d love to hear from you. Get in touch contact@sarcoma.org.au and you can help to change the future of patients and families.  

Thanks to our incredible community who have already shared their experience, support networks and advice. You can look forward to more sarcoma stories coming soon. 

Fundraising Updates

KB’s Legacy – Rock for a Cause

Last month, our ANZSA Ambassador, Kyle Gemmill from KB’s Legacy, hosted an unforgettable fundraising event—Rock for a Cause. The evening was included rock music from the talented band Sonic Assault and a fantastic array of raffle prizes. Thanks to the generosity and support of everyone involved, the event raised an incredible $12,166, a true testament to the power of community.

A heartfelt thank you to KB’s Legacy and Kyle Gemmill for your unwavering dedication and passion, not only for creating an amazing night, but for driving forward the mission to advance sarcoma research.

Follow us on social media

Want to be the first to know about our latest research, events, and community initiatives?

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn, to help raise awareness and support for sarcoma research and join our community!