Plaque and portrait unveiled in memory of Dr Judy Jacka OAM

31 August 2022

Western Sydney University have unveiled a memorial plaque and commissioned portrait of Dr Judy Jacka OAM in recognition of her extraordinary life of service and contribution to Australian natural therapies.

Unveiled during a special memorial event hosted by the University’s NICM Health Research Institute (NICM HRI), the memorial plaque is positioned in the Institute’s courtyard garden, and the portrait hangs in the main foyer and fittingly across from the memorial bust of fellow natural health pioneer, Mr Maurice Blackmore.

The Jacka Foundation of Natural Therapies commissioned the portrait, which was painted by renowned artist and multiple Archibald Prize finalist, Mr Jiawei Shen.

Overcome with emotion while speaking at the event, Ms Terri Albert, Chair of The Jacka Foundation of Natural Therapies, remarked on the significance of the memorial plaque and portrait.

“Hopefully into the future when people stop and read this plaque, or look at her stunning portrait, or learn in the conference centre, it will lead them to ask who Judy was, what did she do and maybe even how that has impacted them in their day-to-day life,” says Ms Albert.

“Judy almost has a second home here at NICM HRI, and it resonates her commitment to the partnership she chose so very strongly to support.”

Judy’s family members attended the unveiling, along with The Jacka Foundation of Natural Therapies Board Members, Western Sydney University’s Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Barney Glover AO, NICM HRI Director, Professor Dennis Chang, renowned artist, Mr Jiawei Shen, representatives from the Australian complementary medicine industry and University staff and students.

Speaking also at the unveiling, NICM Health Research Director, Professor Dennis Chang commented on the importance of integrative medicine research and Judy’s impact.

“Judy’s bold thinking and actions have made a difference in the lives of so many,” says Professor Chang.

“Judy and the Foundation have always acknowledged the importance of building strength and concentration in integrative medicine research, and our Institute stands as clear evidence to that.

“It is through the generosity and shared vision of supporters and donors such as Judy, The Jacka Foundation of Natural Therapies, Mr Marcus Blackmore AM, The Blackmore Foundation, and Blackmores Group, that we can make a difference in healthcare through our research that advances the knowledge and understanding of evidence-based integrative medicine.”