Community & Business
19 September, 2026
Dinner raises thousands for Mareeba Hospital
MORE than $17,000 raised during an auction at the FNQ Growers gala dinner recently will enable the Mareeba Friends of the Hospital Foundation to offer more support to the local hospital.
MORE than $17,000 raised during an auction at the FNQ Growers gala dinner recently will enable the Mareeba Friends of the Hospital Foundation to offer more support to the local hospital.
Foundation president Tom Braes described the generosity shown by growers, industry representatives, businesses and community members who attended the dinner as “outstanding”.
“Every dollar raised will help us provide equipment and projects that enhance patient care, comfort and safety at Mareeba Hospital,” he said.
Over the years, the Friends of the Hospital Foundation has funded a range of projects and equipment, including floorline beds to improve patient safety, televisions for patient wards, and the Serenity Garden adjoining the palliative care area.
“Community support allows us to fund projects that are beyond normal government funding and make a real difference to patients and their families,” Mr Braes said.
“The Serenity Garden is one example of how community donations can create something special for patients and loved ones during difficult times.”
The Foundation acknowledged FNQ Growers for selecting the Friends of the Hospital Foundation as a beneficiary of the evening and thanked all those who donated auction items, bid generously and contributed to the event’s success.
“We are fortunate to live in a community that consistently supports local causes,” Mr Braes said.
