SPRING ✽ 2025 NEWSLETTER Donate Online www.awcancertrust.org.au Introducing your 2025 Sunshine Walk Champion: Jane Mackinlay We are thrilled to announce Jane Mackinlay as the 2025 Sunshine Walk Champion! Jane brings boundless energy, passion, and warmth to this year’s event, and we are so grateful for her support of our community’s biggest fundraising walk. Jane’s connection to the cause is deeply personal. In 2018, she underwent her own treatment right here at the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre. Having access to world-class care close to home meant everything, it allowed her to stay in familiar surroundings, continue working, and keep up many of her everyday routines. Small moments, like having friends drop by for a chat, made all the difference during her treatment and recovery. To this day, Jane continues to attend regular appointments at the Centre, which she describes as an “incredibly calming environment.” From the volunteers at the front desk to the dedicated medical teams, she says, “Everyone in the Centre made my treatment easier. We need to ensure our cancer centre continues to provide world-class treatment here in our community.” Now, Jane is proud to step up and walk for others. She knows firsthand how vital local cancer care is and how many lives it touches. As Sunshine Walk Champion, she will lead this year’s campaign, inspiring walkers, teams, and donors from across the region to get involved. And she’s adding a little friendly competition along the way! Jane is challenging schools across the region to rally their students and staff, following the lead of her own community at Scots School. With a trophy, and year-long bragging rights, up for grabs, it’s a challenge worth accepting. Why register for the Sunshine Walk? The Sunshine Walk is a chance for the Albury Wodonga community and surrounding towns to come together in support of patients, families, and the dedicated staff at our local cancer centre. By registering, you’ll be raising vital funds that stay right here in our community, supporting staff training, the Wellness Centre at Borella Road, cancer research, and life-saving equipment. As Jane puts it: “When I was diagnosed, so many people asked what they could do to help. The Sunshine Walk is such a powerful way to help, your time, your steps, and your fundraising truly make a difference.” What is Jane most looking forward to? “I’m looking forward to a classic Albury Wodonga Spring Day, filled with sunshine and community spirit. Seeing a sea of yellow shirts winding through our twin cities will be incredible with families, sporting clubs, and local businesses all walking side by side for one cause. I can’t wait to share conversations along the way and feel the energy of everyone united. I truly believe 2025 will be a recordbreaking year.” This year let’s walk together with Jane, knowing every step helps support local families facing cancer. • PHOTO: Jane Mackinlay, your Sunshine Walk Champion. A PUBLICATION OF COVER PHOTO SUPPLIED BY: ANDREW OSBORNE LANDSCAPES
Dear friends, As we prepare for one of the brightest and most meaningful days in our calendar, the Sunshine Walk, I can’t help but reflect on how far we’ve come. Now in its seventh year, the Walk has grown from humble beginnings to a powerful display of community spirit, with more than 900 walkers joining us to support those facing a cancer diagnosis. I warmly encourage you to register and take part. This simple act sends a powerful message: No one walks alone, and as a community, we stand together to offer strength, care and hope. We’re incredibly grateful to welcome back our long-time Sunshine Walk sponsors: VISION, Healthfocus Physiotherapy, 1494 2AY radio, and co.gency. I’m also delighted to introduce our newest sponsor, Tonkin, who has joined us in championing this vital cause. To our amazing community fundraisers, Corowa Pony Club, the Sunshine Charity Golf Classic, and the Deniliquin Blueheelers Rugby League Football Club, thank you. Your contributions are deeply appreciated and make a real and lasting difference. This will be my final newsletter as Chair of the Board. After an incredible nine years, the time has come to pass the baton. I’m proud of everything we’ve achieved together. Over this time, we’ve strengthened our reputation, grown our annual fundraising efforts, and seen significant investment in the four key pillars of our work: the Wellness Centre, Research, Education and Equipment. All of this has moved us steadily closer to our shared vision: That every person diagnosed with cancer in our regional community has access to high-quality treatment and support services, close to home and to their loved ones. I’d like I would like to thank my colleagues who are also finishing up as Board Members. To Kerry Stauch and Tony Liston who have volunteered nine years of their time and Bryan Blake (8 years), your dedication, passion and expertise over the many years has been invaluable. Looking ahead, I know the future is in capable hands. I’m pleased to introduce our newest Board Members: Kate Hoffensetz, Jason Disher, Tracey Parnell, and Craig Macleod. Our Board continues to be built around strong skills, broad experience, and deep commitment to ensuring the Trust Fund is well-positioned to continue to support our community well into the future. Thank you for the honour of serving as Chair. I am so proud of what we’ve achieved together, and I remain deeply inspired by the generosity and care of this community. Yours in Sunshine, Michelle Hensel Letter from the Board Chair
Sunshine, sport and the spirit of giving came together in perfect harmony at the Sunshine Charity Golf Classic, held from 25–29 May 2025 at the stunning Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort. Now in its 11th year, this beloved annual tradition brought together a community of passionate golfers, generous sponsors, and committed volunteers for a week of fun, laughter and fundraising. And for the first time in its history, the event extended its impact by supporting two regional charities, raising a phenomenal $17,000 each for the Southern Peninsula Community Support and Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund. The driving force behind the event, Patricia Randall, has been at the heart of its success since day one. Dario Prighel has also played an integral role in the event’s success over many years, and together Patricia and Dario reimagined the tournament as the Sunshine Charity Golf Classic, a name that reflects not only the beautiful weather but also the warmth and generosity of everyone involved. “This fundraising event benefits everyone along the Murray River who needs the Cancer Centre,” Dario says. “Including the Trust Fund as a beneficiary was an easy decision.” Sunshine Charity Golf Classic Tees Up Generosity and Joy on the Murray The week was filled with highlights, from the competitive rounds of golf to the welcoming dinner, wine tasting evening, and the much-anticipated Gala Auction Dinner. While no one took home the brand-new Lexus offered for a hole-in-one, Vicky Horton from Rosebud Country Club thrilled the crowd with a hole-in-one of her own, just not on the Lexus hole! Meanwhile, Judy Kruger came agonisingly close, earning the title of “closest to the pin.” With bookings already coming in for next year’s event, set for 24 - 28 May 2026, it’s clear the Sunshine Charity Golf Classic has become more than just a tournament, it’s a celebration of community, compassion and connection. As Dario said with a smile, “Many of us come here for the golf, but it’s the friendships and the cause that keep us coming back.” • PHOTO: Jeremy Maxwell, Andrew Mackinlay, Patricia Randall, Peter Savy CEO Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club and Bryan Blake celebrating at the event’s dinner.
The Corowa Pony Club was awash with pink over the weekend for its annual Pink Day Memorial Fundraiser, an event that brings together the community, ponies, and a whole lot of heart. This year, the club raised $1,430 in honour of their much-loved past president, Ronnette Williams, who sadly lost her battle with cancer. The day was a fitting tribute, filled with laughter, pink glitter, pink outfits for ponies and people, even though pink was Ronnette’s least favourite colour. “We wear pink because she didn’t like it and it has become our fun way of remembering her and supporting a cause close to our hearts,” Nancy Naughtin, Treasurer shared. The event also shone a light on how cancer has affected many local families in the Corowa region, making the day even more meaningful. “To have the cancer centre in our region, is a blessing. We don’t need to travel long distances for treatment and as a club, we are happy to make annual donations,” said Nancy. Andrew Mackinlay, Trust fund Manager praised the Club’s incredible dedication to the annual memorial fundraiser, saying “The generosity shown by the Corowa Pony Club is incredibly heartwarming. This Club’s donation and commitment to wearing pink will make the world of difference to those in our region affected by cancer here”. A huge shout out to all the parents who helped create so many pink Corowa Pony Club Turns Pink for a Cause! costumes for both humans and ponies! We hear that you too got into the pink theme and can’t thank you enough. • PHOTO: Kyla Coonan, the 2025 Ronnette Williams Trophy Winner. • AWASH WITH PINK: From the top of her head to the tips of her toes, Leonara Naughtin dressed in pink for the fundraiser.
After five successful years rallying support within the AFL community, Terry Socks it to Cancer has officially broken new ground, thanks to the determination of Kurt Longford. Kurt Longford, a passionate player and club leader with the Deniliquin Blueheelers Rugby League Football Club, reached out with a clear message ‘rugby league clubs can also play a powerful role in supporting locals affected by cancer.’ Kurt, feeling inspired what his good friend Daniel Maher was doing for his community, jumped on the opportunity to make the Blueheelers the first rugby league team to join the Terry Socks it to Cancer fundraising campaign. Not only did the Blueheelers proudly wear Terry’s iconic green socks, but they also marked their return to the field with their first official game in 48 years, a historic moment for the club and the Deniliquin community. While the Blueheelers didn’t come away with the win on the scoreboard, Kurt said the real victory was the community spirit and support shown on the day. “The score didn’t matter, it was about coming together for a cause that touches everyone,” Kurt said. Blueheelers Make History as First Rugby League Club to Join ‘Terry Socks it to Cancer’ “If you want something to happen and you’re passionate about it, hard work gets results.” Kurt was thrilled to make a $155 donation to the cancer centre. In looking ahead, Kurt hopes to inspire more rugby league clubs to get involved in the fundraiser and is already working on new ideas to raise awareness and funds. Andrew Mackinlay, Trust Fund Manager, praised Kurt’s dedication “Rebuilding a club from the ground up is no easy task, especially when players are travelling over 300km just to play. Kurt’s passion is remarkable, and if the success of the Western Riverina Community Cup is anything to go by, we can’t wait to see what he has planned for 2026.” From all of us at the Trust Fund, and congratulations to the Blueheelers for scoring your first try in 48 years, and for proving that when sport and community unite, the results are powerful. PHOTO: Deniliquin Blueheelers RLFC (in the green socks) pictured with Ivanhoe Roosters RLFC
Pillar 1 - Wellness Centre • A SUPPORTIVE TOUCH: Rachelle Van Aken bringing comfort, care and connection to cancer patients and carers. Oncology Massage a Vital Part of Care at the Wellness Centre One of the most quietly powerful services on offer is oncology massage, provided by Rachelle Van Aken through the Centre’s subsidised voucher program. A qualified remedial massage therapist with advanced training in oncology massage, Rachelle delivers specialised treatments tailored to cancer patients and their carers. “Oncology massage is very different to regular remedial massage,” Rachelle explains. “It’s about gentle, supportive touch, and working with the body rather than applying pressure to it. It helps calm the nervous system, ease side effects, and provide a positive experience of touch, which can be rare during cancer treatment.” Rachelle says that while some clients come for pain relief or to manage radiation or surgical side effects, others simply want a moment of calm before or after a procedure. “It can be grounding for people, especially when they feel anxious or vulnerable. A lot of what we do is about creating a sense of normalcy and reassurance.” The Oncology Massage Voucher Program is funded by the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund, and is available not only people’s stories and building those relationships. It’s a real privilege to do what I do.” For those interested in accessing oncology massage, vouchers are coordinated by Wellness Centre staff and are available by referral. More information can be found through the Centre or by speaking with your treatment team. With continued support from the community and the Trust Fund, the Wellness Centre continues to be a pillar of care. Ensuring that every person affected by cancer is treated with compassion, dignity and respect. to patients, but to carers as well, something Rachelle is passionate about promoting. “Carers go through so much, often silently. Being able to offer them the same level of care and support is important. This service is about the whole community of care, not just the patient.” Rachelle sees a small but steady number of patients each week, depending on their needs and treatment schedules. Later this year, she will head to the Sunshine Coast to complete her Advanced Program in Oncology Massage. “I’m always learning. The more I know, the better I can support people.” Rachelle’s enthusiasm for her role is infectious. “It sounds cliché, but everyone deserves to feel well, to be treated like a person and not just a diagnosis. I love hearing For those navigating the physical and emotional impacts of cancer, the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Wellness Centre is a place of comfort, support and the healing touch.
Pillar 2 - Research Photos Helped Older Cancer Patients Share “What Matters Most” in WorldFirst Study at Regional Centre core component of age-friendly care. The photographs provided a unique opportunity to ask that question. Patients welcomed the opportunity to share photographs, noting that it helped clinicians look beyond the cancer diagnosis and gain a deeper understanding of the person behind the disease.” The success of the feasibility trial positioned the AWRCC as a national leader in developing age-friendly, patient-centered cancer care. Researchers believed it was the first time photographs had been used in this way within a clinical cancer setting anywhere in the world and was made possible through community donations. “This work would not have been possible without the support of our community through the Trust Fund,” the research team said. “By listening to patients and giving them the tools to share their stories, we not only shaped better cancer care locally, but also set an example for cancer centres across Australia and beyond.” A world-first research project at the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre (AWRCC) used photographs taken by patients to help doctors better understand their priorities, challenges, and personal circumstances during cancer treatment. Entitled ‘Geriatric Assessment in the Instagram Era,’ this project drew on the modern reality that almost all of us now carry a camera in our pocket and that sharing photos has become part of everyday life. The feasibility trial, undertaken in partnership with La Trobe University and funded by the AWRCC Trust Fund with $18,988 in community donations, explored whether patient photos could be integrated into geriatric assessments for older adults living with cancer. As part of the trial, 18 patients aged 70 and over were asked to provide 4 photographs on the following themes: their identity, their home environment, transport to appointments and something that was important to them. The aim was to find photographs that they felt best reflected their lives and “What Matters Most”. Photos ranged from family photos to pets and hobbies, to their cars, and pictures of their house and garden. These photographs became the starting point for in-depth conversations with researchers, who then created multimedia case reports for discussion with the patient’s multi-disciplinary team. And the results? The researchers found that this new approach provided powerful patient insights that were not usually captured in routine medical assessments. The photos and resulting conversations highlighted “What mattered most” to patients while also revealing their individual strengths, challenges, and personal goals. This new method for capturing information about each patient helped to guide decisions about their treatment. “Photographs taken in their own environment provided patients with a way to communicate more openly and allowed clinicians to understand the context of their lives,” said A/Prof Christopher Steer, Research Lead. “We have learnt that this approach supports age-friendly, personalised care. We experienced improvements in communication between both us and the patients, which in turn helped us to ensure treatment was centered on each individual’s needs. Determining “What Matters Most” is a • A WORLD-FIRST: Research participant Harry Thomas with one of his 4 photos that assisted researchers and clinicians to look beyond his cancer diagnosis
Lynne Keatings, a Nurse Practitioner Candidate in Palliative Care has successfully completed her Master of Nurse Practitioner studies through Flinders University and, once her final results are published, will apply for Nurse Practitioner endorsement with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). As a mature-aged student returning to study, Lynne admits the journey has been far from easy. “This course has challenged me in so many ways, academically, emotionally and socially” she said. “But my focus has always been on improving my ability to provide appropriate and effective care to my patients, ultimately improving their quality of life.” Over the years, Lynne has also completed a Graduate Certificate in Palliative Care and has been the recipient of several scholarships to assist with university fees. She says this support, combined with the guidance of mentors and her family, was critical to her success. “The unconditional support of my family and my three mentors was the only way I got through,” she explained. “Dr Chei Li, Dr Anne Keedwell and NP Alison Bowman all supported me in different but very important ways. Add to that the patience and encouragement of my family, and I feel incredibly fortunate.” A dedicated local nurse is set to take the next step in her career, thanks to years of study, determination, and the generosity of the community. Looking ahead, Lynne will attend the Oceanic Palliative Care Conference in Brisbane later this year, before celebrating her graduation in December. She hopes her story will inspire others who are considering the same path. Most importantly, Lynne says her education has only been possible thanks to the generosity of community donations to the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund. “I want to sincerely thank all the donors who make this support possible,” she said. “Without you, I would not have been able to complete this journey. I’m now looking forward to putting all that I have learnt into practice to make a difference for patients and families in our community.” • RETURNING TO STUDY: Lynne Keatings reflecting on her learning. Pillar 3 - Education and Training
Pillar 4 - Equipment Supporting Patients Every Step of the Way During the 2024–25 financial year, Nicole supported 313 individual patients, with more than 1,300 points of contact at the Centre. Over 350 patients have gone through the Enhanced Supportive Care program since its introduction in May 2021. For many, she is more than a coordinator, Nicole is a lifeline. One grateful patient reflected “I don’t know how I would have managed on my own. Having someone sit with me in appointments, explain things in plain language, and help with all the forms made an enormous difference. It felt like someone was finally in my corner.” None of this would be possible without the generosity of the local community. The Trust Fund continues to fund 50% of Nicole’s role, ensuring that every patient, no matter their circumstances, has someone to walk alongside them during one of the hardest chapters of their life. Nicole’s story is a reminder that community support is not just about dollars and cents, it is about compassion, connection, and making sure no one faces cancer alone. For Cancer Care Coordinator Nicole Webb, learning has never just been about textbooks or degrees, it has always been about one thing: making life a little easier for patients facing cancer. In 2019, Nicole was awarded a Trust Funded $18,000 scholarship to undertake the Master of Cancer Sciences through the University of Melbourne. The scholarship not only advanced her skills but also reinforced her commitment to ensuring that patients in our region receive the highest standard of care, close to home. After completing her Master’s, Nicole worked for a year as a project manager in a community-funded project (by HRICS) that explored how to better understand older patients’ needs, capabilities, and support systems The outcome of this project was the introduction of the Enhanced Supportive Care program at the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre The program involves providing indepth assessments so that patients are not judged on their age but on the results of these assessments. This enables the provision of appropriate treatment and supportive care. A part of this assessment involves asking about hearing loss. Nicole noticed that often patients came without their hearing aids making the assessment more challenging and resulting in the patients having difficulty with the information they were receiving. Other times having their hearing tested was on a list of things to do. After consulting with the Cancer Centre’s speech pathologist, she approached the Trust Fund with a request for specialist equipment that could make a difference. Thanks to the generosity of the Lodge Belvoir 727 Social Committee, the Trust Fund purchased four Personal Hearing Amplifiers. One amplifier now supports the Supportive Care Team, including the McGrath, Melanoma, Prostate, and Cancer Care Coordinators, while the remaining devices are used at Border Medical Oncology, Ramsay Health Day Oncology, and Genesis Care. These amplifiers ensure that wherever patients are within the Centre, hearing loss will not prevent them from being part of the conversation. Patients can now hear instructions clearly, ask questions with confidence, and feel reassured that their voices are heard throughout their treatment journey. Nicole’s dedication goes far beyond equipment and programs. Her role as a Cancer Care Coordinator is deeply personal, offering patients the kind of practical and emotional support that can make an overwhelming diagnosis feel just a little more manageable. • MAKING LIFE A LITTLE EASIER: Nicole Webb demonstrating the use of the new Personal Hearing Amplifiers that will be used across the Cancer Centre.
Baker Motors - Corporate Friends............................$5,000 Barry Wenke - Sale of poetry books ............................$810 BraveHearts on the Murray Funding for breast & ovarian cancer research.......$20,000 Bright Hospital Op Shop Pensioner Pete’s Power Paddle for Cancer.............$20,000 Centenary Foundation - The John Ryan Perpetual Charitable Trust........$8,108.45 Clair Madden.............................................................$1,000 Colleen Mulligan Pensioner Pete’s Power Paddle for Cancer...............$1,000 Corowa Pony Club ....................................................$1,430 Emma McNaught..........................................................$500 Enhance Physio - Winter Gala.................................$46,057 Estate of Mavis Coster - Bequest............................$10,000 Findex - Corporate Friends .......................................$2,000 Hehirs Transport - Regular donation .......................$1,500 Howlong Senior Cizitens ..........................................$5,000 Huon Financial Planning - Corporate Friends ..........$5,000 Intereach ..............................................................$1,078.52 Jarrod Hodgkin.............................................................$500 John & Cynthia Maher Donation................................$1,000 Julie Richardson Pensioner Pete’s Power Paddle for Cancer..................$515 Justin Stevens - AWFA State of Origin.........................$515 Lions Club of Benalla - Annual donation......................$500 Howlong Senior Citizens Inc.....................................$5,000 Kelsey Watts Memorial Trust Fund..............................$857 Mary & Jim Kondarios Pensioner Pete’s Power Paddle for Cancer...............$1,015 Michelle Roberson - Donation......................................$500 Nigel Semmens - AWFA State of Origin ...................$1,015 North East Over 60’s Bowlers Group Annual donation.........................................................$1,000 Peggy Barton Pensioner Pete’s Power Paddle for Cancer..................$515 Peter Dixon...................................................................$500 Phyllis Hodge - Annual donation...............................$7,000 ProPoint Business Solutions Following passing of work colleagues sister...............$500 Rotary Club of Bright Pensioner Pete’s Power Paddle for Cancer...............$2,000 Rutherglen Ballroom Dance Festival In memory of Bev Grunow.........................................$1,000 St Patricks Junior Football Pink Socks Round......................................................$3,000 Cathy Howsam - Annual donation...........................$80,000 Sunshine Charity Golf Classic.................................$17,500 Talgarno Community Social Club.................................$500 Tony & Monica Conway..........................Generous Donation Victory Lutheran College Rite Journey Fundraiser.......................................$1,417.50 Wayne Lambs - Cans for Cancer...............................$1,305 We thank the following individuals and organisations for their support. They have made a significant contribution to cancer services to the benefit of our local community. RECENT SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTIONS: Thank You! • Scarlet Naughton with her pink pony at the Fundraiser. • Cancer Care Coordinator Nurses with heartfelt letters from the Year 9 Students at Victory Lutheran College.
With an average of 300 patients a day treated at the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre, the Trust Fund needs your support more than ever. Money donated to the Trust Fund is used to pay for cancer services, training, research and equipment that is not funded by the government. The $64 million centre has united cancer services under one roof, offering a place to educate, support, research, diagnose and treat all forms of cancer. But to ensure it remains a first class, proactive and formidable facility, we must continue to source and manage extra funding from within our community. Where will the money go? The Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Trust Fund will allocation donations to the service area most in need, with the focus on our Four Pillars. Pillar 1: Wellness Centre and supportive cancer care programs Pillar 2: Research and clinical trials Pillar 3: Education and training for staff Pillar 4: Equipment that supports cancer treatment. ONLINE QR CODE www.awcancertrust.org.au IN PERSON Direct debit at any Bendigo Bank branch Scan this QR Code Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund Inc. BSB: 633-000 Account No: 150854123 PHONE (02) 6064 1538 and have your credit card ready Donations $2 and over are tax deductible. Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund Inc. has been established by the Albury Wodonga Cancer Foundation and approved by donations of $2 or more. How your donation helps How to Donate: 100% of your donation stays in the Albury Wodonga Region The Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund is proud to be a 100% local charity. All funds raised will stay here in our region to support our family, friends, colleagues and fellow community members who are going through the cancer journey. EQUIPMENT RESEARCH EDUCATION WELLNESS CENTRE 1 4 3 2 SAVE THE DATE!
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