Blood and Cancer Society

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in Australia, and its impact extends far beyond the individual patient to families, friends and the wider community. Our club aims to bring together students who share an interest in haematology and oncology and who want to contribute to the broader fight against cancer through education, research and community engagement.

The club will serve as a multidisciplinary student community for those interested in learning more about cancer, blood disorders and the rapidly developing fields of haematology and oncology. We hope to welcome students at all stages of their university education, including those who may already be considering a career in these fields, students interested in cancer research, and students who simply want to contribute to cancer-related causes.

A major focus of the club will be helping students find an early pathway into research. Cancer research is a large and rapidly evolving field, but it can be difficult for students to know how to become involved. We hope to bridge this gap by connecting students with researchers, clinicians and organisations such as SAHMRI and SAiGENCI. Initiatives may include research interest nights, presentations from researchers and clinicians, discussions about available research opportunities, and opportunities for students to develop connections with potential mentors.

Education will form another important part of the club. We hope to provide accessible educational content through platforms such as Instagram and Facebook, as well as face-to-face tutorials, lectures and seminars covering important topics in haematology and oncology. These activities will particularly support medical and health sciences students while remaining accessible to the wider university community.

Finally, the club will have a strong community and service focus. We hope to organise fundraising and volunteering activities and collaborate with cancer-related organisations such as Cancer Council SA, the Leukaemia Foundation, Camp Quality and the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Examples may include involvement in Daffodil Day, fundraising campaigns and volunteering opportunities.

Alongside these activities, we hope to organise social gatherings and fellowship events so that students with a shared interest in haematology, oncology and cancer advocacy can meet one another and develop a supportive community.