A gift in your Will is an immensely powerful way to make a difference, whether you’ve been personally affected by the diseases we study at SVI, or simply want to invest in the future health of our community.
By making a pledge in your Will, you’ll join the Jack Holt Society, named in honour of the man who made SVI’s founding bequest, with the goal of providing long-term financial stability to pursue cutting-edge medical research.
Jack Holt Society members are invited to exclusive events and receive ongoing recognition in honour of their special commitment. Your gift can be directed to any specific area of SVI’s research that you wish to support.
In memoriam
Making a donation in memory of a loved one who has passed away is a very special way of commemorating their life.
Many families ask mourners at a funeral to donate to SVI instead of giving flowers. We can assist by supplying donation slips, envelopes and a drop-box at short notice.
You can also make a direct donation in memory of a loved one or establish an ongoing contribution to mark a birthday or other significant event in their life. We can support this activity by sending an acknowledgement of your gift to the next of kin, including a personal note of support from you.
By donating to SVI in memory of a loved one, you are not only celebrating their life, but you are also helping to create a healthier future for generations to come.
For further information, contact SVI Foundation: [email protected] or (03) 9231 2480.
Celebrating the Legacy of Hilton Nicholas: A Lifelong Commitment to Medical Research
We are proud to honour the remarkable life and contributions of Hilton Nicholas AM OBE, whose legacy continues to resonate through the SVI. Born to George and Ruby Nicholas, Hilton’s journey was marked by leadership, service, and an unwavering passion for advancing medical science. 
Hilton’s distinguished career began in the skies during World War II, where he flew Hurricanes for the Royal Australian Air Force. After the war, he joined the family business, Nicholas Pty Ltd, contributing to its international operations. His leadership extended beyond the corporate world; he also chaired the Victoria Racing Club and made a significant impact as a thoroughbred breeder.
However, Hilton’s most profound legacy lies in his dedication to medical research. Serving on the SVI board for over 30 years, including five years as chair, he was immensely proud of the Institute’s breakthroughs and Melbourne’s emergence as a global hub for medical research. “Hilton maintained a vital interest in SVI right until his final days,” recalls his wife, Marjorie Nicholas OAM. “Even when his mind was confused, he would still find joy in reading about SVI’s work.”
Hilton’s commitment to SVI was not just professional; it was deeply personal. Having lost his mother at just 18 months old, he understood the importance of medical advancement in changing lives. His childhood experiences shaped his belief in the moral responsibility to contribute to society. “He was keen on medical research and development as a way of helping people,” Marjorie reflects.
His passion for philanthropy was matched by Marjorie’s. Together, they shared a commitment to giving back, guided by their strong values. “We both believed in supporting causes that resonate with us,” she shares.
Hilton’s foresight in leaving a generous bequest to SVI ensures that his legacy of advancing medical science will continue for generations to come. His belief in the importance of funding medical projects, regardless of their success rate, underscores a profound humanitarian spirit that inspired many.
As we reflect on Hilton Nicholas’s extraordinary life, we celebrate not only his achievements but also the enduring impact he has made in the field of medical research. His story is a testament to the power of dedication, compassion, and the importance of giving back to the community. Hilton’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations in the pursuit of knowledge and healing.
“He would be incredibly proud to see that his foresight in leaving a bequest is helping to ensure that SVI’s groundbreaking research continues. It’s a powerful way to realise his legacy of advancing medical science.”
– Marjorie Nicholas
Turning grief into action
Ten years ago, Gerald Snowden’s beloved wife Patricia passed away with breast cancer.
In the decade since, Gerald has reflected on the far-reaching potential of medical research to improve treatments and prevent disease for families such as his own.
“Patricia did so much for so many.” Gerald says. “I wanted to turn my frustration at being unable to help her into something positive – something that reflected the type of person she was and that would also help provide hope to others”.
After Supporting SVI over a number of years and announcing his intention to leave a bequest to the Institute, Gerald decided to donate $1 million in honour of Patricia’s memory.
“I look forward to seeing my gift support discoveries for many years to come.”
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