Tributes

Mr Robin Speed

LLM OAM and Founding Director of Sydney Blood Cancer Research Institute.

Sydney Blood Cancer Research Institute would like to acknowledge and pay our deepest respects to the late Mr Robin Speed LLM OAM who, as a Founding Board member Sydney Blood Cancer Research Institute, was instrumental in its establishment. Robin passed away in February 2023.

Robin was a highly respected and gifted Australian lawyer who not only excelled in his legal career, but was passionate in the many interests he promoted for the good of the community.

Among these, in 2016 Robin was crucial in guiding and mentoring Haematologists at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital for the Sydney Blood Cancer Research Institute to be established and registered as a charity, to support research and clinical trials – with the aim of improving the outcomes for Haematology patients, to advance our knowledge of blood cancers, and to allow the opportunity to develop additional skill sets for staff who conduct research and care for patients in Haematology.

With his vast experience in the set-up of not-for-profit organisations, Robin guided us with a firm hand, providing not only advice on governmental regulations and ensuring all due processes were followed, but assisted us in formulating an appropriate structure with Board, administrator, financial oversight, as well as patrons and ambassadors. He took a keen interest in our laboratory and clinical research, and was always excited about our new projects and directions. For Robin, strategic thinking was the key to success and effectiveness. In his work on the Board, nothing was ever too difficult or insurmountable, an approach we adopted as a team to great benefit, for our patients, our staff and projects.

In particular, Robin had the unique skill of being able to assess a situation, provide advice and a practical solution. For example, Robin would identify the skill set we required at a given time, and then tap into his networks to find an appropriate contact. His success is reflected in the fact that the individual talents he identified for us all remain connected to our organisation. His kindness, discernment and loyalty will always be remembered.

To Robin’s family, thank you for sharing Robin with us. We send our deepest condolences to you, with the knowledge of the enormous impact Robin has had on Sydney Blood Cancer