Geelong region gives generously to Royal Children’s Hospital

TWO locations in the Geelong region have made the top 10 in fundraising outside Melbourne in this year’s Good Friday Appeal (GFA).

Of the final $23,822,792 tally for the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH), Victorian regional and rural towns added more than $5.4 million.

Geelong was in fourth place, raising $202,532.41 behind only Ballarat, Albury/Wodonga and Devenish, Dookie & District, while Barwon Heads rounded out the top 10 with $91,501.25.

Other tin rattlers and fundraisers locally also did their part. Contributors included Torquay and Jan Juc raising $70,958, Little River raising $43,427, Drysdale raising $42,073, Ocean Grove raising $34,227 and Point Lonsdale raising $21,042.

 

“The generosity of regional Victoria is truly inspiring,” GFA chair Penny Fowler said.

“From small towns with big hearts, to major regional centres, communities have united to make a huge difference for sick children and their families.

“Their unwavering support highlights the compassion and dedication of regional volunteers, donors, and supporters.

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who made this year’s record-breaking success possible.”

This year’s appeal, together with the RCH, continues its commitment to regional Victoria by making a record-breaking $3 million investment in regional health services, building on the $2.5 million provided in 2024, to ensure children in rural and regional Victoria have access to world-class medical care closer to home.

 

 

This funding will benefit 41 health services including Barwon South West (Barwon Health, South West Healthcare, Colac Area Health Service, Western District Health Service and Portland District Health Service), which will put its share of the contribution towards strengthening neonatal services with new equipment and specialised training for healthcare providers.

“We are continually inspired by the dedication and generosity of regional Victorians. This year’s record-breaking total is a reflection of the passion and commitment of these communities,” GFA executive director Rebecca Cowan said.

“From creative fundraising initiatives to tireless tin shakers, every effort has made a real difference for sick children and their families.

“We are thrilled that this year’s appeal will help strengthen regional health services, allowing families to access world-class care without needing to travel far from their homes.”

Since 1931, the Good Friday Appeal has raised more than $492 million to support the RCH and regional health services.