Dementia Australia honours Patron Sir Michael Parkinson CBE

Dementia Australia honours renowned broadcaster and Dementia Australia Patron Sir Michael Parkinson CBE, affectionately known as Parky, following his passing at the age of 88.

In honour of his mother, Freda Rose, who lived with vascular dementia, Sir Michael was a valued supporter of Dementia Australia and the former Alzheimer’s Australia NSW. In 2010, he was appointed as Honorary International Ambassador, Alzheimer's Australia NSW and in 2017 accepted the role of Patron Dementia Australia.

As Patron Dementia Australia and an Ambassador for Alzheimer’s Australia NSW Sir Michael generously contributed to raising awareness and vital funds by sharing about the impact of dementia on his mother and his family.

Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe AM acknowledged Sir Michael’s extraordinary support in Australia, the United Kingdom and around the world for raising awareness about dementia.

“Since 2010 he was guest speaker at a number of significant Dementia Australia fundraising events, appeared in our Fight Dementia television advertisement in 2011, often shared his experience in media interviews, supported Memory Walk & Jog campaigns and other important fundraising activity,” Ms McCabe said.

“Sir Michael’s committed and far-reaching advocacy has made a profound and lasting difference to the lives of people of all ages living with dementia, their families and carers in Australia and around the world.

“He was so gracious and generous and we are so honoured and grateful to have had his support.”

Fellow Dementia Australia Patron and Chair of ABC Ita Buttrose AC OBE recognised Sir Michael’s invaluable influence.

“I had the privilege of being interviewed by him and interviewing him for television and for Dementia Australia,” Ms Buttrose said.

“Michael was the most generous of supporters. He was incredibly giving with his time and sharing his personal experience to help others.

“Nothing was ever too much trouble for him.

“Like everyone whose lives have been impacted by dementia, he knew what his advocacy work meant, and he worked tirelessly to raise awareness and funds.”

Dementia Australia is the source of trusted information, education and services for the estimated more than 400,000 Australians living with dementia, and the more than 1.5 million people involved in their care. We advocate for positive change and support vital research. We are here to support people impacted by dementia, and to enable them to live as well as possible. No matter how you are impacted by dementia or who you are, we are here for you.

For support, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. An interpreter service is available. The National Dementia Helpline is funded by the Australian Government. People looking for information can also visit dementia.org.au

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Media contacts: Megan Jones, Media & Communications Advisor, 0411 461 678, megan.jones@dementia.org.au

When talking or writing about dementia please refer to Dementia-Friendly Language Guidelines.

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If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, please call the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 (24 hours, 7 days a week) or visit dementia.org.au.