Patients needing robotic urology, gynaecological and other abdominal surgeries will no longer need to travel or go without these “cutting edge” surgeries, thanks to an incredible 19-month, $4.3 million fundraising campaign.
The Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation has reached its goal to bring the surgical robot, nicknamed DaNi, to our public hospital.
Foundation CEO Gina Hogan said the milestone achievement meant public patients in Far North Queensland would now have equitable access to the latest surgical techniques – right here at home.
“This is a huge step forward for health care in our community and the largest fundraising appeal in our 29-year history,” Mrs Hogan said.
“It means patients have smaller incisions, fewer surgical complications, and less time in the hospital, which, of course, will free up beds for other patients needing care and help attract and retain staff,” she said.
“During the past 19 months, our community has united in an extraordinary way to make this possible. From donations starting at just $5 to major contributions from generous donors – every gift has played a vital role in reaching this milestone.”
Campaign Highlights:
- Trinity Advisory Christmas Charity Luncheons (2020–2023): Contributed an incredible $868,596, giving the campaign a strong start. Their 2024 event added a further $411,000 and 2025 added $500,000.
- Starlit Soirée at Cairns Airport (2024): Raised $755,150, including a remarkable $450,000 donation from Kenfrost Homes.
- Australian Armour & Artillery Museum Dinner (2025): Added $896,225, with Kenfrost Homes contributing another $500,000, bringing KenFrost Homes’ total contribution to the campaign to $950,000.
- Nu Nu Restaurant Melbourne Cup Lunch: Raised $120,145 in 2024 and an impressive $200,728 in 2025 (totalling $320,728 for the campaign).
- BDO Arrow Experience & Coral Expeditions Art Union: Together raised $137,498 across two years.
- Maritime Union of Australia (Cairns Branch): Donated $100,000.
- Ellis and Denise Richardson: Donated $100,000, then pledged to match donations up to $100,000, doubling contributions and raising $200,000 in just three weeks.
- Mills Family Foundation: Contributed $50,000 in memory of former FNQHF CEO Tony Franz during the matched giving campaign.
“This campaign was powered by generosity, creativity, and collaboration. From gala dinners to raffles, charity lunches to matched giving campaigns, to gift-wrapping, to individuals and businesses – all donations large and small, the people of Far North Queensland have shown what is possible when we come together for a shared purpose. Thank you to every donor, volunteer, and supporter who helped make this dream a reality. DaNi will soon be transforming lives in our region – and it’s all thanks to you.”
