Redcliffe Hospital has celebrated an outstanding community response to its annual Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital Giving Day, with more than $226,000 raised to support local patients and families.
The record-breaking result, the largest in the six-year history of Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital Giving Day, was driven by community spirit and generosity, hospital-wide engagement, a live broadcast from 99.7 Bridge FM and donations doubled by Impact Partners.
Strengthening care for local families
Funds raised from this year’s Giving Day will support the continued refurbishment of single rooms and ensuites within Redcliffe Hospital’s Palliative Care Unit, raising comfort, dignity and connection for patients and families. More than $1.2 million has now been raised from Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital Giving Days over the past six years, supporting more than 80 hospital projects.
Sharyn Tidswell, Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital Manager said the result reflects the strength of community generosity.
“Today shows what is possible when a community comes together with heart and purpose,” she said.
“Every donation, large or small, contributes to projects that raise comfort and wellbeing for local patients and their families.”
Raising it for Ray
This year’s Giving Day also held special significance with a ‘Raise it for Ray’ tribute, honouring the legacy of the late Ray Kerr, former Station Manager of 99.7 Bridge FM and a passionate advocate for Redcliffe Hospital and its community. Ray’s daughters, Morelle and Tara, joined his Bridge FM family onsite for the day in a moving celebration of his enduring contribution to Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital.
The inaugural Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital Philanthropic Leadership Award was presented posthumously to Ray, recognising his vision, leadership and commitment to strengthening community connection through giving.
“Ray was a strong advocate for Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital and a passionate supporter of Redcliffe Hospital and its important role in the local community,” said Ms Tidswell.
“He helped establish the original Giving Day radiothon and bring live radio broadcasting onsite at Redcliffe Hospital, creating a powerful platform for storytelling, engagement and giving.”
Announcer Big Jon from 99.7 Bridge FM said continuing the broadcast at Redcliffe Hospital was a deeply meaningful tribute.
“Ray believed in the power of radio to bring people together and make a difference,” Big Jon said. “Being here today, broadcasting live from the hospital surrounded by his family and community, was incredibly special. It felt like Ray was here with us.”
Community comes together at Redcliffe Hospital
Raise it for Redcliffe Hospital Giving Day transformed Redcliffe Hospital into a buzzing hub of activity, connection and celebration, bringing together staff, volunteers, donors and community partners to raise comfort, wellbeing and research for patients and families.
The hospital’s entrance came alive with a full program of activities, following an official launch ceremony MCed by Sharyn Ghidella, 10 News Queensland and RBWH Foundation Board Member. The morning was attended by hospital executives and RBWH Foundation Board Members alongside federal, state and local government representatives.
The day featured a live 99.7 Bridge FM broadcast, the sold-out Rotary Club of Redcliffe Sunrise sausage sizzle, Redcliffe Hospital Allied Health bake sale, face painting by Showtime Stars, Clontarf Beach State High School earring stall, Redcliffe Hospital Auxiliary gift stall, and free popcorn and activities by REDDY Fun and Fitness and Tom’s Law. There were also appearances from the Dolphins NRL and Sesame Lane mascots.
A highlight of the morning was Director of Research Dr Joel Dulhunty riding his iconic penny-farthing bicycle into the hospital, drawing excitement from staff, patients and visitors.
Donations were doubled by generous Impact Partners until midnight, ensuring every contribution went further to support local healthcare services. Impact Partners included Lewis Land (The Komo and The Belvedere), GKS Law/Your Team Conveyancing, BallyCara, Crew Legal, My Care Enterprises, Holistic Horizons Support Services, Electronic and Mechanical Calibrations and individual donors.
