The 25th of May saw the Mackay Retail Store opened its doors to the public. The small space was packed full of supporters and Cancer Council Queensland CEO Professor Jeff Dunn AO, made up just one face in the crowd.
The special occasion was made more meaningful with the dedication of a room to long-serving volunteer, the late Mrs Dianne Shore OAM.
“It was recognising someone who went way beyond what was expected,” says Mackay volunteer Suzanne Kavanagh. Di played a mentor role to Suzanne and others in the community and gave a lot of hope to the survivors. “The room is a sign of hope,” says Suzanne.
The naming of the room after Di meant the launch was touched with nostalgia, but also happiness in the remembrance of Di’s work. Suzanne appreciated the effort Jeff Dunn made to be there to support the opening. “He always speaks so well,” she says. “Straight from the heart.”
Judy McKenzie, Margaret Stapleton, Jeff Dunn, Noel Shore and Suzanne Kavanagh at the new Mackay office.
Suzanne believes the more central location of the store will increase foot traffic. Located around the corner from the Mackay City Heart at 97 Victoria Street, Suzanne says the store will be more noticeable to the public. She hopes the more prominent location will allow people in the area to learn about Cancer Council Queensland’s work in Mackay and give their support.