The Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation has shattered records and raised the bar for health care impact into the future.The charity’s latest annual report shows history was made as the Foundation soared past $6 million in revenue from their cafe, carpark, and fundraising initiatives in 2023.
This fundraising record has resulted in a profit of $2.605 million available for grants and distributions, setting a new standard for health care philanthropy in the region.
The Foundation awarded $145,736 in local research grants and $60,774 towards supporting health staff education grants throughout the 22-23 period. This is an increase of $80,000 from the previous year.
More than 74 pieces of equipment were purchased including cannulation chairs, nursing skills dolls, laryngoscopes, scales, vital signs monitors, portable oxygen concentrators and bladder scanners as well as Indigenous art at hospitals from Tully, Cairns, Atherton, Herberton, Gordonvale, Mission Beach, Innisfail, and Weipa.
There were 50 health care workers who shared in $60, 774 worth of grants to complete further training in their fields, and 17 research projects funded at a cost of $145,736.
Minister for Health, Mental Health, and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman paid tribute to the year's achievements.
“Our hospital foundations across Queensland play a crucial role as they work year-round to support their communities and hospitals.
“The work the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation has done over the past 12 months to improve the health experience for patients and staff is incredible.
“The Foundation’s efforts saw more than 74 pieces of vital equipment funded, 50 staff supported to complete further education and training, and 17 research projects funded to improve healthcare services across the region.
"I want to congratulate and thank the team behind the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation for their efforts supporting Queenslanders to receive the best healthcare possible.”
Foundation chairman Dr Ken Chapman said the goal of $1.5 million for the $3.4 million Cancer Care Hub resulted in $1.14 million raised before the end of the last financial year and the goal was realised in August this year.
“These funds have been set aside for distribution as the project gets underway," Dr Chapman said.
“In the 2022-2023 financial year we contributed $1.66 million towards health care which is $728, 000 more than last year and is in addition to the $1.5m for the Cancer Care Hub.” Dr Chapman paid tribute to the team of staff and volunteers who achieved such exceptional outcomes.
