Letter from our Board Chair

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, especially alongside fellow long-serving Board Members Tony Liston and Kerry Strauch, who have also reached the nine-year milestone this year. 

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. 

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