Fundraising endeavour going very well

A five-year fundraising initiative that has become a crucial source of support for Bendigo Health’s Cancer Wellness Program has just crashed through the $1 million barrier.

The popular McKean McGregor Gala Ball, first held in 2022, collected $268,836.28 at this month’s sold out 2026 installment, bringing the total raised to a whopping $1,204,272.28.

The program, which is based at Bendigo Health’s Gobbé Wellness Centre and relies entirely on community donations, provides free services to cancer patients including oncology massage, reflexology, yoga, mindfulness programs, support groups and wellbeing workshops.

Last year over 500 patients accessed the centre, attending more than 3000 appointments.

Chris White, director cancer services at Bendigo Health, said his team is “very excited and very pleased” with the outcome.

“It’s such an amazing result for a community-led fundraiser to raise such a significant amount of money over five years,” he said.

“Everything we provide through the wellness centre is completely funded by donations and support from events such as the Gala Ball.

“McKean McGregor does such an amazing job – we couldn’t do it without them.

“It’s also a credit to all the sponsors and local businesses that really get on board and get behind this event and this cause.”

White said the Cancer Wellness program will inevitably continue to rely on donations moving forward.

“We know what it means to the patients so we really hope the community remains on board and supports us.”

To donate, visit the Bendigo Health Foundation website.