The Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund last year raised a record $1.72 million, enabling the largest ever investment in new equipment, staff education and training, research and the Wellness Centre.

As part of its annual general meeting in November, the Trust Fund revealed donations and fundraising in the 2022-2023 financial year had topped more than $640,000 on the previous 12 months.

Part of this was due to a generous bequest of a home left by Yarrawonga resident, John Allan, resulting in a donation of just over $450,000.

The Trust Fund also enjoyed its most successful fundraiser, with the Sunshine Walk in November, 2022 raising $263,731, and the community-led Sunshine Ride in March 2023 generating more than $113,000.

It meant the Trust Fund could make a record investment throughout the year, particularly in its key areas of new equipment ($608,000), the Wellness Centre ($300,000), research ($120,000), and staff education and training ($85,000).

A further $55,000 was provided in small grants to improve local cancer services.

During the year, the Trust Fund also announced a new project to help local families of children diagnosed with cancer, committing $330,000 over three years.

A new position of Paediatric Cancer Care Coordinator at Albury Wodonga Health aims to coordinator care close to home where possible for young cancer patients and their families.

This was made possible through a commitment from major donors, the Albury SS&A Club of $60,000 per year, and the Phegan family of $50,000 per year.

Chair Michelle Hensel told the AGM the Trust Fund was “extremely proud” of what was achieved over the 12 months.

“Every year I stand here truly amazed at what our generous community and outstanding Trust Fund team has been able to achieve,” she said.

“What an outstanding achievement to raise over $1.7 million in difficult times to help community members impacted by cancer.

“We were able to achieve this with a tremendous amount of community support from our generous local businesses and individual donors, plus our many sporting and community groups.”

Mrs Hensel also thanked the Fundraising Committee and Cancer Pal community advocates.

How your donation helps

$608,000 for new equipment;

$300,000 in the Wellness Centre;

$120,000 in research; and,

$85,000 in staff education and training.