Charity fun run raises thousands for hospitals

Published 12:00pm 23 August 2023

Words by Ashleigh Howarth

A record number of participants have taken part in a charity fun run to raise money for Redcliffe Hospital and Royal Brisbane Women's Hospital (RBWH).

More than 160 people, including 17 teams, took part in the fourth annual Moreton Bay Prostate Cancer Support Group Metro North Fun Run, which was held on Sunday, August 6.

Runners and walkers could either take part in a 10km run, 5km run or walk, with the course taking in water views between the Woody Point Jetty and Redcliffe Jetty.

Oragnisers have hailed this year’s event a huge success, with $14,690, being raised for Redcliffe Hospital’s Urology Department and RBWH prostate cancer research through online registrations and donations.

Moreton Bay Prostate Cancer Support Group's John Dowling says he's thrilled to see the event grow bigger each year.

“Back in 2020, COVID forced us to review how we promoted our group and how we raise our funds to cover all of our financial needs,” John says.

“In conjunction with the urologists at the Redcliffe Hospital, we decided to start a fun run that included a 10km run, 5km run and 5km walk.

“The first event had 50 runners in total and raised $6000.

“Fast forward to 2023 and our fourth fun run, and we can hardly believe just how much it has grown and the positive impact it has had on the peninsula community.

“While there were many individual registrations, a number of local businesses also came on board to lace up their shoes and show their support. Registered teams on the day included Shine Lawyers, Mount Maria College Petrie, The Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Caboolture Rotary Club, Green Apples Wellness Centre, BDO Private Wealth and a team from GenesisCare, who was also the major sponsor.

“We also need to recognise the fundraising efforts of some of the individual runners - Steve Bullock, Emily Whitson and Melissa Everett raised more than $500 each, which is an incredible achievement.

“We also must admire the senior participants who are in their 70s and though challenged, they completed the course.

“They have all vowed to do it again next year.”