Tynan Motors Proudly Supports Future Leaders in Medical Research through the Michael Tynan Challenge

At Tynan Motors, our commitment to community and progress extends beyond the automotive world—we are passionate about supporting life-changing medical research that can make a real difference in people’s lives.

We’re proud to share an exciting update from our ongoing partnership with Molecular Horizons, a world-class medical research facility at the University of Wollongong (UOW). Each year, the Michael Tynan Challenge (MTC) supports this facility through the Tynan Family Molecular Horizons Honours Scholarships, helping to train the next generation of leaders in medical research.

A Legacy of Giving Back

Tynan Motors has proudly served and supported our local community for nearly 60 years, guided by a strong commitment to making a positive impact beyond the road. In keeping with this tradition, since 2018, the Tynan family has partnered with the University of Wollongong (UOW) to advance vital medical research through the Michael Tynan Challenge—a series of inspiring community fundraising events.

_{UOW participants of the Michael Tynan Challenge Coastal Walk}

Named in honour of Tynan Motors’ founder, Michael Tynan, the Challenge reflects his lifelong dedication to giving back and fostering a stronger, healthier community. His legacy lives on through this initiative, which continues to grow thanks to the generosity of local supporters, event participants, and sponsors.

We’re proud to share that, including this year’s contribution, the Michael Tynan Challenge has raised approximately $212,000 to date, directly supporting medical research and student scholarships at UOW’s Molecular Horizons.

These funds have made a significant impact, supporting talented students at UOW and advancing research that aims to solve real-world health problems—from the molecular level to the whole body.

About Molecular Horizons

Molecular Horizons is a cutting-edge facility at UOW, dedicated to solving urgent health challenges and improving patient outcomes. The centre not only drives scientific discovery but also plays a crucial role in nurturing future medical researchers, empowering students to explore solutions for diseases like cancer, motor neuron disease, and Huntington’s disease.

Supporting Future Innovators – 2025 Honors Scholarships

This year, we are thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2025 Tynan Family Molecular Horizons Honours Scholarships, awarded to exceptional honours students whose work explores vital areas of medical research. Each student receives $2,000, with an additional $3,000 awarded to their primary supervisor to support their project.

Meet the 2025 Scholarship Recipients:

• Jay Hill is exploring whether certain naturally occurring viral-like molecules in our DNA may contribute to motor neuron disease, particularly in relation to the build-up of harmful proteins in brain cells.
• Aimee Cox is investigating how brain cells process fats, which may be altered in Huntington's disease. Her research could help identify new detection or treatment methods.
• Molly Burton is developing a novel method to deliver gene-silencing treatments directly to pancreatic tumors, aiming to reduce toxic side effects and improve outcomes for patients with this challenging cancer.
• Samuel Ticknor is studying how the misbehavior of a protein called TDP-43 contributes to nerve fiber breakdown in motor neuron disease, offering valuable insights into potential therapies.

These emerging leaders are mentored by Associate Professor Kara Vine-Perrow, the new Deputy Director of Community Partnerships and Engagement at Molecular Horizons. Kara leads the Targeted Cancer Therapeutics Research Laboratory, focusing on drug development and delivery for breast and pancreatic cancer, as well as motor neuron disease. Her guidance ensures that students benefit from cutting-edge expertise while advancing medical innovation.

Honoring Impactful Partnerships

Professor Eileen McLaughlin, UOW Executive Dean of Science, Medicine and Health, shared her appreciation for the Tynan family’s continued support:

“I am grateful to Ms Tynan who has supported UOW’s vision of providing world-class medical research and providing opportunities to local students. The Michael Tynan Challenge is a great social cause and is changing lives through cutting edge research and supporting the goals of our students.”

We are incredibly proud to play a role in supporting the ambitions of these outstanding scholars. Their dedication, curiosity, and innovation embody the spirit of the Michael Tynan Challenge.

Looking Ahead

We eagerly anticipate meeting this year’s scholarship recipients and following their progress as they undertake impactful research that could transform lives. Through the ongoing support of our community, the Michael Tynan Challenge will continue to honour Michael’s legacy, empowering students and driving medical breakthroughs for years to come.

Learn more about the Michael Tynan Challenge and how you can get involved in supporting medical research and student success in our region.