Coast puts cash to child health charity

Wishlist's Nicky Graham and CEO Lisa Rowe welcomed more than 800 guests to the 2021 Spring Carnival lunch at the Sunshine Coast Convention Centre. 256924_01

The Wishlist Spring Carnival lunch raised $280,000 for life-changing health support of Sunshine Coast children and their families.

A record crowd of more than 820 attended the event at the Sunshine Coast Convention Centre, Twin Waters last Friday.

It was a welcome back after the 2020 event was cancelled due to Covid-19.

Now in its 13th year, the Spring Carnival luncheon has raised more than $1.5m for life-saving research, hospital accommodation close to Sunshine Coast University Hospital, vital equipment and invaluable therapy services.

Event founder and managing partner at Travis Schultz & Partners, Travis Schultz, said he was inspired by this event every year.

“The Sunshine Coast community never ceases to blow me away with their giving camaraderie and generosity,” he said.

“After last year’s hiatus, it was exciting to see the spring carnival concept we coined 13 years ago back in action and fundraising for Wishlist.

“Thanks to the generous organising committee, sponsors, supporters and guests, we raised a record amount yesterday which will go a long way towards helping shape Australia’s first Wishlist Centre.”

The Wishlist Centre is the latest project being undertaken by government, business and the community – an additional 18 rooms of low and no-cost accommodation for patients receiving on-going treatment at Sunshine Coast University Hospital.

It is Australia’s first facility to provide patient accommodation, primary healthcare and complementary therapies under one roof.

The event included an impressive line-up of speakers including Dr Dinesh Palipana OAM, Dr Rachel Taylor, Australian poet Rupert McCall, and hosted by Hot 91’s Sam and Ash.

There were several identities in the crowd from Noosa helping to raise funds for Wishlist.