From base camp to Admiralty House: Mission peaks with national honour

Gary McKitterick Gillett with Governor-General of Australia Sam Mostyn AC. 

Gary McKitterick Gillett, founder of Trek Ready Himalayas and a clinical assistant at Queensland Health’s Adem Crosby Centre at Sunshine Coast University Hospital, has been formally recognised for his fundraising achievements supporting Parkinson’s research.

Mr Gillett received a Certificate of Appreciation from Governor-General of Australia and patron of the Shake It Up Australia Foundation, Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, during a special presentation at Admiralty House, Kirribilli, Sydney, on August 7.

The certificate acknowledged his significant contribution to Shake It Up Australia’s mission to slow, stop and ultimately cure Parkinson’s disease.

Mr Gillett’s frontline role at the Adem Crosby Centre places him at the heart of patient care within Queensland Health. This daily connection to individuals and families navigating complex health journeys fuels his determination to support research that brings hope and progress to people living with Parkinson’s.

“Being recognised by Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC – especially in her role as Patron of Shake It Up Australia – is an incredible honour,” Mr Gillett said.

“This certificate belongs to every trekker, donor, volunteer, and supporter who has walked beside us. Together, we’re helping fund research that brings real hope to people living with Parkinson’s.”

Through Trek Ready Himalayas, Mr Gillett has inspired hundreds of Australians to take on life-changing adventures while raising funds for research delivered in partnership with the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

His events, including the Himalayan Challenge series, Swing for a Cure golf fundraiser and Painting for Parkinson’s charity auction, have become platforms for advocacy, education and community connection.

Shake It Up Australia Foundation is dedicated to advancing Parkinson’s research in Australia. With 100 percent of donations directed to scientific research, the foundation partners with the Michael J. Fox Foundation to support projects with global impact.

Trek Ready Himalayas empowers Australians to undertake Himalayan treks while raising funds and awareness for Parkinson’s research.