A powerful tribute rooted in love, legacy and community support is back and bigger than ever, with the second annual Bloomed for Bloomhill Mother’s Day Lunch officially sold out at the exclusive Palm Creek Estate in Yandina on Friday 9 May.
Spearheaded by sisters-in-law Melanie and Maritza Barone, the event was born from a deeply personal place by honouring Melanie’s mother, Maria, who passed away from cancer in 2023.
Melanie said her mother’s favourite flower, the hydrangea, remains the heart of the event’s design and a symbol of her enduring spirit.
“Mum found great comfort in the complementary therapies similar to those that Bloomhill offers so this event is our way of honouring her memory while helping ensure other local families receive that same level of comfort and support.
“Last year’s event raised over $30,000 and we are aiming to exceed that total and all proceeds raised this year will directly fund the appointment of another full-time nurse at Bloomhill, this is a critical step in reducing wait times and expanding patient support services,” Melanie said.
This year’s event welcomes 190 guests up from 130 attendees last year and has attracted support from 17 local businesses as sponsors and partners.
Maritza said this high level of support is a testament to the Sunshine Coast’s generosity and shared commitment to Bloomhill’s mission and its legacy over the past 30 years.
“It’s about real, tangible impact. Every dollar means faster care and more support for people navigating cancer right here on the Sunshine Coast. We are overwhelmed by the love and backing from our community for this event and the work of Bloomhill.
“It’s going to be an incredible event in a stunning location at Palm Creek Estate, adding to the sense of occasion, we will have award-winning hospitality entrepreneur Tony Kelly who is stepping out of retirement and into the kitchen to present the main course which includes a showcase of locally produced Kilcoy Beef. There is also a standout entrée of Walker’s Tuna which is presented by our official catering partner Penfolds,” Maritza said.
General manager Mervat Quirke said she was thrilled with the ongoing support for Bloomhill’s work in the community.
“Maritza and Melanie bring an incredible amount of style, professionalism and passion to this event. Bloomed for Mother’s Day has quickly become a ‘must attend’ event for the Sunshine Coast with all 190 tickets selling out in quick time. I’m very confident we can achieve our fundraising target this year which will help to fund another Bloomhill nurse in our community,” Mervat said.
Fundraising is open to all members of the community by visiting Bloomed for Bloomhill: shorturl.at/cU19u
