Vale Justin Yerbury

On behalf of our community, we are extending our thoughts and sympathy to the family and friends of pioneering molecular biologist Professor Justin Yerbury AM who died last Friday following a lengthy battle with Motor Neurone Disease, the disease he spent a great portion of his life researching.

Professor Yerbury was renowned for his cutting-edge work on the pathology of Motor Neurone Disease. His research contributed to the betterment and wellbeing of humanity by developing a deeper understanding of the causes of cell dysfunction.

Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said that Professor Yerbury was an extraordinary individual who exemplified the sort of citizen we want to celebrate in our city.

“I am deeply saddened to hear the news of Professor Yerbury’s death. Professor Yerbury was an outstanding person who led a life that gave back to others through his professional achievements,” Cr Bradbery said.

“He was a celebrated sportsman, a dedicated family man and someone whose research and work into Motor Neurone Disease was greatly admired in scientific circles. Over the years, Professor Yerbury and his team have worked to improve our collective knowledge of Motor Neurone Disease and cellular biology, and in doing so helped those who are diagnosed with the disease.

“We awarded Professor Yerbury the Keys to the City in 2022 as a way to recognise his efforts and legacy for the Wollongong community, Australia and the world. This award recognised not only his academic achievements but how his work improved the lives of others especially people with disability.”

Professor Yerbury was also recognised as Wollongong’s Citizen of the Year in the Australia Day Awards in 2019 and received the Order of Australia in the 2020 Australia Day Honours for significant service to education and research in the field of biological sciences.

Wollongong City Council General Manager Greg Doyle said that Professor Yerbury’s death would be felt by the Wollongong community.

“Professor Yerbury was a leader in his field and his professional achievements in his work are not to be underestimated,’’ Mr Doyle said.

“However, Professor Yerbury was so much more than just an extraordinary individual who undertook scientific research. He was a family man who loved his wife, Rachel, and his daughters deeply. He was an advocate for people with disability who was never afraid to point out when things could be improved to make places, spaces and things more equitable.

“And, above all that, he was also a man known for his generosity of spirit. He will be missed.’’

Wollongong City Council will acknowledge Professor Yerbury at tonight’s Council meeting where the Lord Mayor will give a short statement marking his passing.