As anyone who’s spent time in regional Australia knows, there’s something special about country communities.
The road to Goondiwindi (or “Gundy”, as local residents call it) in the Darling Downs is instantly recognisable, as it’s lined with little buds from the local cotton industry. The people are warm and friendly, and everyone pulls together, whether it’s to offer lifts or to raise money through regular fundraisers.
Avril, a retired cattle farmer in her eighties who still splits up her own firewood with a saw bench, has lived in the area for more than half her life, and exemplifies country spirit.
She still volunteers at her local Driver Reviver site and delivers food for Meals on Wheels.
She has also donated regularly to Cancer Council Queensland since 1992 yet refuses to take credit for her incredible contribution.
Avril says, “At the time, my husband and I just decided we should start supporting something we may need, and other people do need.”
“You can’t give to every charity as much as you would like to. You’ve got to target the areas you think are most important in your own life. I know a lot of people who have gone through cancer.”
Avril has also taken part in the Sponsor a Room program at her nearest Cancer Council Queensland Accommodation Lodge – the Olive McMahon Lodge in Toowoomba. The Lodges gives rural and regional Queenslanders, along with their families and carers, a place to stay if they need to travel for cancer treatment. Avril chose to sponsor a room at Olive McMahon for a year, and her gift has helped enhance the amenities and services available for guests who come to stay.
“I think that’s a marvellous thing. When the brochure came out, I read about it, and I thought, well, I can’t help physically but I can write a cheque. So that’s what I did.”
“If I need treatment in Toowoomba, I’m only three hours away, but I know there are people who are eight hours away. So, the Lodges are very much a necessity and appreciated.”
What’s more, she has also generously included a donation to Cancer Council Queensland in her Will.
Avril is typically modest about her gift.
She says, “I hope to heck it does a lot of good!”
Learn more about our Sponsor a Room Program.