The RFDS Cairns Base has welcomed a $40,000 donation from the RFDS Near and Far Voluntary Auxiliary.
The funding is the result of numerous activities and events ranging from field days and raffles through to a monster Cent Sale that contributed $11,000 of the funds alone.
The RFDS could not miss the opportunity to acknowledge the hard work of the Auxiliary, and one committee member in particular, Denise McGucken.
For more than a decade Denise has led the charge on many of these fundraising initiatives, and is also credited with keeping the organisation operational.
To acknowledge these tremendous efforts, Cairns Base Manager, Samuel Okposin, and former Base Manager, Mike Lacey, both joined in the donation presentation.
“Not only has Denise been instrumental in raising vital funds for the RFDS also for keeping the Near and Far Voluntary Auxiliary up and running,” Mr Okposin said.
“Her time, effort and dedication to our service across the Cairns community and beyond is appreciated, and for that we thank her.”
Denise’s commitment also puts the spotlight on her fellow Auxiliary colleagues across Queensland, a collective of volunteers who work tirelessly to keep the Flying Doctor in the air.
President of the RFDS Near and Far Voluntary Auxiliary Brenda Agius was pleased to see Denise receive the much-deserved praise from the RFDS.
“Our Auxiliary is passionate about ensuring that all of us who live and work in regional, rural, and remote parts of Far North Queensland have access to the vital healthcare services provided by the RFDS,” Ms Agius said.
“Even while balancing her own personal challenges, Denise has continued to dedicate so much time and energy into our mission, and for that she will always remain a great legacy.
“We must also thank members of the public who’ve made our fundraising efforts possible by supporting our cent sales, street stalls and raffles – their generosity is heart-warming.”
The RFDS relies heavily on the support of the local community through fundraising, in order to provide a wide range of health services to regional, rural and remote Queensland.
