DOCUMENT

Headlines 11 Three outstanding young researchers are currently funded by Miller Scholarships: James Wiseman from the University of Auckland Liggins Institute, is studying the accumulation of a specific type of protein within the brain that is associated with a devastating group of neurodegenerative disorders. Bryony Thorne is studying neuropsychiatric disorders such as major depressive disorder and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at Victoria University of Wellington. Alice Freeman from the University of Otago is investigating the use of creatine supplements to reduce the risk of poor neurodevelopmental outcomes in babies born too early or too small. By the mid-1930s, Bill had the motorcar business running well and he became interested in mining. He designed and built a mercury mine at Puhipuhi, north of Whangarei, and found deposits of the mineral manganese near Hunua south of Auckland, and copper at Pakotai in Northland. When the Second World War started mercury became a key ingredient for the manufacture of detonators. Copper and manganese also were in short supply and he developed quite elaborate systems to transport the ore to the road heads. As the war ended, the demand for these metals declined and the mines were closed. From here, Bill’s focus was brought back to Span Farm until, at the age of 83, he sold the farm. Bill died in 1977 and his wife Beryl passed away 18 months later. Bill’s will was finalised after the passing of his wife. The Millers generously donated the residual of their estate to the Neurological Foundation. This gift has enabled over 54 W&B Miller Postgraduate Scholarships to be awarded, more than achieving the Miller’s wishes to encourage neuroscience students to undertake research projects. Each Miller Scholar receives a three-year stipend to support their research. The W& B Miller Scholarship has launched the careers of many researchers and helped to shape the vibrant neuroscience research community we have in New Zealand today. It has also touched the lives of the many people suffering from neurological conditions. The vision of a brave 13-year-old boy grew into a legacy that is so profound. It will keep changing the lives of researchers and people who suffer from devastating neurological conditions, in perpetuity, for generations to come. Bill Miller, standing and Frederick Sandford, in the cockpit of the biplane at Avondale racecourse, 1913 ©NewZealand Herald Glass Plate Collection, Auckland Libraries, 1370-8-1; photographer ANBreckon TheMillers generouslydonated the residual of their estate to the Neurological Foundation. This gift has enabledover 54 W&BMiller Postgraduate Scholarships tobe awarded, more than achieving theMiller’s wishes to encourage neuroscience students to undertake research projects.

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NjA0NA==