A VISIONARY investment made more than 30 years ago by the Cairns branch of the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) has blossomed into a generous $100,000 donation to the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation’s Donate for DaNi campaign.
In 1991, when the Commonwealth Bank of Australia was floated on the Australian Stock Exchange, the Cairns MUA branch bought a parcel of shares as part of a long-term investment strategy.
Over the years, those shares steadily appreciated in value, culminating in a six-figure windfall that the branch has now proudly redirected to support critical care services in the region.
“This donation is more than just a financial contribution – it’s a legacy of solidarity and foresight,” Cairns MUA branch spokesman Bernie Gallen said.
“We’re proud that an investment made in the spirit of collective strength can now help save lives and support families through the Donate for DaNi campaign. This is three generations of FNQ union-orientated merchant seafarers have kept the legacy of ‘United we bargain, divided we beg’.”
Representatives from the union were thrilled today to be invited to see first-hand an example of a type of surgical robot that may be purchased.
The Donate for DaNi campaign, a commitment by the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation, aims to raise funds for advanced surgical technology at Cairns Hospital.
Foundation chairman Dr Ken Chapman said the gift was a testament to the power of community and long-term thinking.
“It will have a lasting impact on the health and wellbeing of so many people in our community – not just the patients,” Dr Chapman said.
The donation not only honours the union’s enduring commitment to the Cairns community but also highlights the profound impact of strategic financial stewardship in supporting future generations.
It adds to $2,756,107 (as at June 19, 2025) already raised through previous fundraising events by as well as numerous other donations from generous supporters.
“Every dollar raised brings us closer to our goal and closer to making a lasting difference.”
For more information about the Donate for DaNi campaign and how you can contribute, visit www.fnqhf.org.au.
Photo: (TOP) Foundation CEO Gina Hogan, Chairman Dr Ken Chapman and Maritime Union of Australia Cairns branch representative Mike Ernst with a surgical robot.
(BELOW): Foundation CEO Gina Hogan, MUA Cairns branch representative Bernie Gallen, Foundation Chairman Dr Ken Chapman, and MUA Cairns branch representative Mike Ernst discuss the benefits of a surgical robot.
