AN onsite ultrasound machine for Cairns Hospital’s Sub-Acute Care Unit is many steps closer, thanks to walkers taking part in the BDO Arrow Experience: Wangetti Edition.
Funds raised from the community trail walk hosted by the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation will go towards an ultrasound machine for the SACU, an off‑site 48‑bed facility in Whitfield that provides rehabilitation and restorative care for the region’s frail elderly population.
Older Persons Subacute and Rehabilitation Nursing Director Jane Jordan said since opening, the unit had required regular access to ultrasound imaging for diagnostic purposes.
“We are absolutely overjoyed at the prospect of having our own ultrasound machine on site,” she said.
“Our patients are predominantly older and often medically fragile. Reducing the need for transport back and forth to the main hospital will significantly improve their experience of care.”
Mrs Jordan said while some patients may have other neurological conditions, the SACU cohort was primarily focused on rehabilitation and restorative care for older people.
“Having access to ultrasound on site will enable more timely diagnostics, improve clinical decision‑making, and reduce unnecessary disruption for patients who are already focused on recovery,” she said.
“It also reduces reliance on ambulance transport, which is a benefit to the broader health system.”
The ultrasound is expected to be used on a regular, ongoing basis as part of routine clinical assessment at the unit, with demand fluctuating depending on patient needs week to week.
Foundation Fundraising and Marketing Manager Jenny Coates said the outcome perfectly captured what community fundraising events were designed to achieve.
“We’ve actually moved this year’s event from the Arrows of Mt Whitfield to the stunning Wangetti Trail – it’s a lovely meandering walk through the rainforest – no stairs and some stunning views of our beautiful region,” Mrs Coates said.
This is to coincide with Cairns Regional Council’s 150th celebrations.
“This is a great result all round: better care for vulnerable patients, reduced pressure on health services, and a tangible example of community support making a difference with this $74,000 equipment.”
BDO North Queensland CEO Stacey Young said they were delighted to be sponsoring the event for the fourth year running.
“Our team genuinely love this event. It brings us together outdoors in our beautiful region while raising funds for a cause that makes a real difference to people in our community who need it most,” Mrs Young said.
Set along the Wangetti Trail, the BDO Arrow Experience: Wangetti Edition invites participants to walk from Ellis Beach to Palm Cove while raising funds for health care close to home.
The event will be held on Sunday, July 26, 2026, with registrations open to individuals, families, community groups and corporate teams.
Visit www.arrowexperience.org.au for more information.
Photo: Nursing Director Jane Jordan, Foundation Fundraising & Marketing Manager Jenny Coates and BDO North Queensland CEO Stacey Young are excited for this year’s BDO Arrow Experience on Sunday, July 26.
