The Mareeba Hospital Friends of the Foundation has celebrated a significant fundraising milestone, presenting Certificates of Appreciation to eight Great Wheelbarrow Race (GWR) teams which collectively raised almost $20,000 for specialist hospital equipment and services.
In a special ceremony attended by Mareeba Shire Council Mayor Toppin, GWR Organising Committee and hospital staff, the Foundation acknowledged the extraordinary efforts of eight community teams who not only participated in the challenging three-day race but also dedicated themselves to fundraising for local health care improvements.
This is believed to be the largest number of teams to fundraise for Mareeba Friends, and the largest amount raised for the organisation, a subsidiary of the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation.
“We are in awe that these teams can train and organise for the event, race over three days, and still have the commitment to fundraise for the hospital,” Mareeba Friends president Tom Braes said.
“These funds will be used towards equipment for a new Wound Care Service at the hospital – our number one priority for 2025. Their fundraising has made this vital service a reality,” Mr Braes said.
He also paid tribute to the Great Wheelbarrow Race volunteer committee and council for organising the event which delivers many community benefits, including the opportunity for teams to fundraise for their local hospital as well as other charities.
The funds raised will support several priority projects at Mareeba Hospital, with contributions from the Council Cruisers and Kickin’ It for Kev teams being added to the Kevin Davies Memorial fund, earmarked for Stage 1 of a new OPERA Therapy Garden.
Teams honoured at the ceremony included: – Saints Seniors and Junior Teams from SSCC – Duesburys Tax Tigers – Cairns Total Physio – Hot Mess Express – Siren Squad – Council Cruisers – Kickin’ It for Kev.
The Mareeba Hospital Friends of the Foundation, a regional volunteer group of the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation, focuses on raising funds for equipment and services that enhance patient care at Mareeba Hospital.
In addition to fundraising for equipment, Mareeba Friends provides a trolley service to hospital patients and conducts regular fundraising events, with bingo currently serving as a regular ongoing fundraiser.
