Background notes recount his life, including a 2023 seizure that revealed a glioblastoma and his radical treatment approach combining three immunotherapy drugs with a cancer vaccine.

Richard Scolyer, a renowned melanoma pathologist and co-director of Melanoma Institute Australia, rose to prominence for pioneering immunotherapy in melanoma and brain tumors and for leading experimental treatments that informed his own care and advanced cancer research.

Colleagues described him as having massive energy, constantly researching, lecturing, and balancing his work with family and fitness.

In 2024 he and Georgina Long were named Australian of the Year, a recognition tied to his advocacy and public updates that elevated his national profile.

Chris O’Brien Lifehouse leaders praised his can-do attitude and enduring commitment to patient-focused research.

Scolyer was noted for engaging patients through fundraising cycling events, including a 500-kilometre Tasmanian ride.

The memorial will be broadcast live on ABC TV, Nine platforms, iView, and 702 Sydney, underscoring his global impact on cancer treatment.

A live blog will provide ongoing funeral coverage on smh.com.au and theage.com.au.

A pre-funeral Tour de Cure peloton ride from Martin Place to the Opera House honored his fundraising for cancer research since 2023.

The Tour de Cure organized the fundraising ride to celebrate his ongoing commitment to cancer research and his legacy.

Lifehouse leaders encouraged donations to support ongoing brain cancer research and to maintain the chair's productive impact aligned with Scolyer’s legacy.

A state funeral is planned for the Sydney Opera House, with about 2,500 attendees and performances by Peter Garrett, Martin Rotsey, and Kate Miller-Heidke, broadcast across multiple channels.