A significant fundraising campaign in Far North Queensland has raised over $4.3 million to enhance access to robotic surgeries for patients in the region. The campaign, which spanned 19 months, concluded with a remarkable $500,000 raised at a charity lunch last Friday. This initiative will allow patients to receive essential urology, gynecological, and other abdominal surgeries without the need to travel outside their local area.
Gina Hogan, the chief executive officer of the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation, praised the achievement, stating that it marks a transformative moment for healthcare in the community. “This is a huge step forward for health care in our community and the largest fundraising appeal in our 29-year history,” 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.”
The campaign’s success stemmed from widespread community support, with contributions ranging from small donations to substantial gifts from major donors. Over the past year, various fundraising events have significantly boosted the campaign’s total.
Highlights of the Fundraising Efforts
Several events played a pivotal role in achieving this fundraising milestone. Notably, the Trinity Advisory Christmas charity lunches held from 2020 to 2023 contributed $868,596, including $411,000 last year and $500,000 from the recent lunch.
Additionally, the Starlit Soirée at Cairns Airport in 2024 raised $755,150, featuring a substantial $450,000 donation from Kenfrost Homes. The Australian Armour and Artillery Museum Dinner in 2025 further added $896,225, with Kenfrost Homes increasing their total contribution to $950,000.
Other notable donations included $100,000 from the Maritime Union of Australia (Cairns Branch), matched contributions of $200,000 from Ellis and Denise Richardson, and $50,000 from the Mills Family Foundation in memory of former FNQHF CEO Tony Franz.
Future Implications for Healthcare
The funds raised will enable the Far North Queensland Hospital to acquire state-of-the-art robotic surgical equipment, ensuring that local patients benefit from advanced medical technology without the burden of travel. This initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to improve healthcare accessibility in regional areas, particularly for complex surgical procedures.
As the community celebrates this significant achievement, Hogan emphasized the unity displayed throughout the campaign. “During the past 19 months, our community has united in an extraordinary way to make this possible,” she noted. The successful fundraising marks a crucial investment in local healthcare, promising to enhance the quality of surgical care available to residents of Far North Queensland.
