Our Story

The Gawler Foundation was established in 1983 as a non-profit, non-denominational organisation to provide innovative and integrated support and lifestyle programs for people affected by cancer and other illnesses.

The Foundation's underlying philosophy is that regaining balance in one's life leads to healing.

Consistent with the principles of integrated medicine, The Gawler Foundation programs apply a self-help approach designed to improve both quantity and quality of life. This enables participants to make informed, effective choices and better manage their own healing journeys.

The Gawler Foundation employs approximately 50 full and part-time staff and offers a range of residential and non-residential programs for people dealing with cancer, multiple sclerosis and other serious illnesses.

The Foundation remains responsive to new research, experience and the changing needs of people who access our programs. We have helped thousands of people affected by cancer, including their families, carers and friends.

In addition to healing programs, the Foundation offers a range of wellbeing programs to help people learn to meditate, eat well and find balance in their life. In 2002 the Gawler Foundation introduced a program for people living with Multiple Sclerosis lead by Prof George Jelinek, author of Overcoming Multiple Sclerosis.

The Gawler Foundation History

The philosophies of The Gawler Foundation are based on the healing experience of Dr Ian Gawler and the experiences and feedback of thousands of patients and their families. Our support programs offer a combination of lifestyle based, self-help techniques and holistic approaches to healing that are second to none and unique in the world.

1975

Ian Gawler developed bone cancer and had his right leg amputated. Later that year the cancer returned, and Ian followed an effective self-help program with key principles - good food, positive attitudes, meditation and loving support. Ian completed a remarkable recovery in 1978.

1981
Based upon Ian's momentous healing experience, Australia's first active Cancer Support Group was established by Ian and Grace Gawler. People learnt how to increase their chances of survival from cancer and how to develop and sustain peace of mind.

1983
The Gawler Foundation was established as a non-profit, non-denominational organisation to further Ian Gawler's work.

Today
Over the years, The Gawler Foundation has blossomed into a dynamic, thriving and leading life-force in health, healing and wellbeing. Over 12,000 people have used the cancer support services directly, and more than 75,000 people have attended the healthy lifestyle, disease prevention and meditation programs conducted by the Foundation. The Gawler Foundation has a residential retreat in the Yarra Valley and in 2010 opened a dedicated Centre in Hawthorn.

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