At a state memorial service held at the Sydney Opera House, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to Richard Scolyer, a renowned melanoma researcher and former Australian of the Year who died in June after a three-year battle with brain cancer. Albanese recalled that Scolyer had been both his friend and next-door neighbor for a period, expressing gratitude for that connection. The memorial drew thousands, including Scolyer’s wife and three children, who shared personal memories of his warmth and encouragement. Speakers, including New South Wales Premier Chris Minns, highlighted Scolyer’s relentless optimism and the hope his work gave to melanoma and brain cancer patients, underscoring the lasting impact of his medical contributions and his personal legacy.