Newybrains

14/10/2025

Please join us on campus for the OCD Awareness Walk tomorrow, Wednesday 15th October. Details below.

The Walk
Join us for a powerful and interactive event to raise awareness about obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Together, we’ll build understanding, reduce stigma, and show support for those living with OCD.

What's On
• Educational Talk (10:30am) – Learn what OCD really is and how we can advocate for people living with OCD.
• Awareness Walk (11:00am) – Step into a symbolic journey designed to build empathy and understanding of what it is to live with OCD.

Event Details
• Wednesday 15 October 2025, 10:30am – 12:30pm
• Life Science Theatre, Callaghan Campus
• Free to attend | Optional donations to the International OCD Foundation

All are welcome — students, staff, and community members.

This event is brought to you by the School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy in partnership with the HMRI Brain Neuromodulation Research Program as part of OCD Awareness Week, a global initiative led by the International OCD Foundation to reduce stigma and raise awareness about obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Visit newcastle.edu.au/ocd-walk-2025 for more information and to register.

As part of international obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) awareness Week, the School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy at the University of Newcastle, in partnership with the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) and the HMRI Brain Neuromodulation Research Program, is hosting a unique event to b...

18/09/2025

26/08/2025

Associate Professor Doug Smith, one of the programs neurobiology researchers, delivered an insightful presentation on dementia research at Elermore Glen Retirement Village earlier this month.

Located in Elermore Vale, Elermore Glen is home to 112 residents aged 55 and over. Each year, the community hosts a Tombola for Charity, where residents vote to support one of five nominated causes. This year, dementia research received the highest number of votes.

"Dementia seems to be very prevalent in our age demographic. It has either touched a family member or we all know someone who is affected, so it makes us very aware of the struggle some people are going through." - Elermore Glen Resident.

Attendees were extremely impressed by Professor Smith’s clear and compassionate explanation of how dementia impacts the brain. He also shared practical strategies to maintain brain health, including staying physically active, engaging in puzzles, and maintaining social connections.

The residents chose to support the Hunter Medical Research Institute, ensuring that the funds raised would stay in the Hunter region to support dementia research at The University of Newcastle, Australia

Thanks to their generosity and a wonderful afternoon tea, the residents raised an incredible $5,000.