Vision

Our Board Members are united by a shared vision: to make a meaningful impact for those affected by pancreatic cancer while inspiring hope. We are committed to raising awareness and funding groundbreaking medical research. As an all-volunteer Board, we ensure that every dollar donated goes further. By leveraging volunteer efforts and pro bono support, we maximize resources to fuel critical research. Advancing medical research is the key to achieving critical breakthroughs in treatment and improving survival rates for those facing pancreatic cancer.

We believe that HOPE is both a mindset and a call to action—one that requires a clear strategy. Our Board brings diverse skills and personal experiences to turn HOPE into action.

We believe in the strength of personal empowerment, collaboration and what a community of like-minded people can achieve.

Inspired by Paul, we acknowledge the challenges ahead, but we do it with Hope, underpinned by strategy and with a focus on embracing joy and positivity along the way.

Our Values

Our values are deeply rooted in the legacy of Paul Dear and reflect the enduring impact of his strong character and demonstrated courage and resilience both on the football field and during his life.

Hard working, Unafraid

We are unafraid of the tough challenge posed by pancreatic cancer itself and the challenge of bringing pancreatic cancer outcomes into the 21^st century in line with many other cancers and diseases that were once thought of as death sentences. Inspired by Paul we will achieve this with dedication, discipline and hard work. 

 Authentic & Trustworthy

Paul valued integrity and was unapologetically real. We operate with transparency, honesty, and a commitment to getting things done.

Rejecting unnecessary red tape, we are resourceful and relentless in our mission. Like Paul we speak the truth with compassion. Inspired by Paul’s example, enduring hardship encourages us to embrace joy and humour whenever possible. 

 Innovative

In a fast-moving world, we embrace Paul’s ethos of challenging the status quo and leveraging technology to drive innovation. Although prepared to work hard when necessary, he believed in working smarter, not harder, and wasn’t afraid to do things differently.

Inspired by his vision, we collaborate with organizations and fund research that harness new technology and new ways of thinking to accelerate breakthroughs.

Connection & Community

Paul was an independent thinker who also valued teamwork and belonging. He cherished his time at Hawthorn Football Club and later embraced grassroots sports through his kids. When he was diagnosed, his community rallied around him with unwavering support.

We honor his legacy by fostering connection and community.

Embrace Hope

Paul never saw himself as a victim—he embraced empowerment, focused on solutions, and chose possibility over limitation. Inspired by his example, we strive to empower others to choose HOPE.

HOPE is a mindset, but turning it into action requires a clear strategy—and we are committed to both.

How

Our goal is to build a community—united by hope and resilience—dedicated to confronting the tough challenges of pancreatic cancer and creating meaningful change.

We raise awareness and funds to drive innovative medical research, recognising that real change requires collective effort. By collaborating with like-minded organizations, we maximise our impact.

Our Board Members