MinRes extends Perkins sponsorship

Diversified miner and contractor Mineral Resources has extended its support for the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, taking its total contribution to $2.25 million.

MinRes commenced its support in 2017 and has agreed to extend its sponsorship for a further three years to 2025.

It sits alongside Wesfarmers, Woodside Energy and contractor MACA as Perkins main corporate supporters.

The Perth-based research institute received a total of $2.15 million in donations in 2021, according to its latest annual report.

The MinRes funding will support cardiovascular research.

Perkins director Peter Leedman said the investment was critical to turning the tide on heart attacks.

“Heart disease is the world’s number one killer,” Professor Leedman said.

“In Australia, nearly 20,000 people die each year from a heart attack.

“The challenge is identifying who is at risk and developing novel approaches to previously unresolved problems.”

It has a team using artificial intelligence and complex computer analysis to better predict who is at high risk of a heart attack.

“This is critical work, particularly as 90 per cent of heart disease from blocked arteries caused by a build-up of plaque is preventable” Professor Leedman said.

The Perkins is also undertaking research into a new drug to combat peripheral arterial disease caused by blocked arteries.

A third team, supported by MinRes funds in 2021, is developing 3D printed heart valves that will have superior properties compared to those currently available.

 “This MinRes-funded research will have significant clinical impact in future for patients with vascular heart disease,” Professor Leedman said.

MinRes managing director, Chris Ellison said the company was incredibly proud to be supporting the Harry Perkins Institute.