Wednesday, 22 June 2022

Ministers statements: Professor Ruth Bishop

Ms PULFORD (Western Victoria—Minister for Employment, Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Resources) (12:33): I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the recent passing of Professor Ruth Bishop and to recognise her incredible contribution to medical research here and around the world. Professor Bishop may not be a household name, but for thousands of children around the world she was a lifesaver.

As a leading Melbourne Children’s Campus scientist and microbiologist, her most significant discovery was the 1973 identification of rotavirus, the major cause of gastroenteritis in infants and children. From this discovery came the legacy of a rotavirus vaccine, which has resulted in thousands of children’s lives being saved around the world, especially in low-income countries. But half of children globally still do not receive a rotavirus vaccine. Professor Bishop’s research group at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute here in Melbourne then developed the oral RV3 vaccine, which can be administered after birth, unlike existing rotavirus vaccines. Professor Bishop’s work will continue on, with the RV3 vaccine currently being further developed under the leadership of Professor Julie Bines. Professor Bishop’s discovery was incredibly significant, and it earned her the Florey Medal, making her the first woman to ever receive the prestigious biomedical research award. She was also made a Companion of the Order of Australia.

Melinda Gates also recognised Professor Bishop’s contribution, recently authoring an article entitled ‘How a virologist named Ruth saved millions of children and led Bill and me to get into philanthropy’, crediting Professor Bishop’s work with being part of why they established the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. There have been few Australian scientists or clinicians who have had such an impact on child health worldwide. We have truly lost a great scientist who leaves a wonderful legacy for our medical research sector, especially for our young women researchers coming through the ranks. My thoughts are with Professor Bishop’s family, friends and colleagues at this deeply sad time. Please accept my condolences and thanks on behalf of the Victorian community.