Dawson mine workers and contractors have been digging deep to help raise more than $35,000 to assist regional families while they access vital cancer treatment.
The funds raised will sponsor three accommodation rooms for 12 months at the Cancer Council Queensland’s Rockhampton lodge.
During a fundraiser event this week, the Anglo American-owned coal mine unveiled two giant haul truck trays painted in breast cancer campaign pink and prostate cancer campaign blue and emblazoned with the cancer support helpline.
Dawson mine general manager Matt Stevens said the fundraiser had brought out the best in the teams working at the site and he commended those who braved a head shave and the dunk tank to raise money.
He said also the new pink and blue trays on the site’s biggest haul trucks would send a powerful reminder for mine teams to not only get their health checks regularly but that support was just a call away if they were struggling.
“It’s a small gesture with, hopefully, a huge ripple effect that sparks conversations and makes a difference,” he said.
Lee Butler, from Moura, was staying at the Rockhampton lodge during his cancer journey and said he could otherwise be doing a four-hour round trip each day.
He said it was fantastic to hear Anglo American would be sponsoring three rooms at the lodge where he was staying.
“I know in in Moura they do a lot for the community and it’s good to see Anglo American reaching out to the cancer council’s lodge,” he said.
“I was diagnosed in November last year. I’ve had quite a few trips to Brisbane for multiple operations.
“I had a scan to follow up with my oncologist in July and he said I need chemotherapy. I do a five-day cycle so it’s good to have somewhere close to stay.”
Mr Butler, who worked at the Dawson mine about seven years ago, urged people to have regular health checks.
“If you feel as though something’s not right, get checked out, no matter what it is,” he said.
“I myself put up with the symptoms for a number of months before getting checked. So if in doubt, go and see the doctor.”
Cancer Council Queensland regional manager Bianca Lagaluga, who is based in Rockhampton, said the organisation operated five cancer support hubs across the state, located near treatment centres across metropolitan and regional areas.
“Our research shows Queenslanders living in regional and remote parts of Queensland are up to 44 per cent less likely to survive cancer within five years of diagnosis, compared to those in metropolitan areas,” she said.
“We know many people may be forced to postpone or refuse treatment because of limited access to cancer support services, and it’s so important our help reaches them.
“Our Sponsor a Room program isn’t just about providing accommodation; it’s about giving rural and regional Queenslanders a lifeline when they’re forced to leave their homes.”