Mater receives $1 million donation for Neonatal Research Chair

A Gold Coast businessman, Terry Jackman has donated $1 million which will fund a pivotal role in our neonatal research team—ensuring Mater babies have the best possible start to life.

Mr Jackman, a former Tourism Queensland chairman who formed Pacific Cinemas Pty Ltd in 1989 and is well-known for his role in securing investment for the original Crocodile Dundee movie, will provide the gift to set up a fund in honour of Sister Angela Mary, administrator of Mater hospitals for 22 years and a figure synonymous with Mater.

Mater CEO Dr John O’Donnell said Mater is a leader in the field of neonatology research and currently cares for more than 2000 seriously ill babies a year.

“The funding will support the role of a senior researcher in neonatal nursing, aptly named the Jackman Chair, to provide a welcome addition to the team and provide leadership and strong collaboration with other research groups both nationally and internationally,” Dr O’Donnell said. 

“The position will join the successful neonatal research team at Mater Research to help identify the most effective ways of managing sick and preterm infants and will also be funded by the Australian Catholic University.”

After stepping down from her administrator role at Mater, Sister Angela Mary served in various executive roles and has remained closely involved with the organisation. She has known Mr Jackman throughout his life and was close friends with Mr Jackman’s mother.  

Sister Angela Mary said she was overwhelmed at Mr Jackman’s generous donation.

“I am humbled and deeply grateful to Terry for this incredible gift to Mater which will go towards funding research and a greater understanding of neonatal care which has the potential to impact not just patients and families at Mater but the wider community,” Sister Angela Mary said. 

Caption: Terry Jackman with Sr Angela Mary