Coming together for the Common Good

Prince Charles Hospital Foundation has kicked-off its 40th anniversary at Caboolture Hospital - which has received more than $900,000 in the last six years.

The Foundation is marking four decades of funding groundbreaking research, vital equipment and patient care initiatives, via its community and fundraising initiative The Common Good.

Celebrations will continue throughout 2026 at Prince Charles Hospital, Chermside and Caboolture Hospital showcasing the organisation’s remarkable work.

Since 1986, the Foundation has invested more than $78 million into healthcare for pioneering medical research that has shaped clinical practice in Australia and the world.

It includes advanced 3D cardiac imaging techniques, investigating alternatives to heart and lung transplantation, researching new treatments for heart and lung disease and an Australian-first silicosis screening trial using breath samples.

There has also been backing for hospital care initiatives, including:

• Queensland’s first Child Life Therapy program in a public hospital emergency department

• ‘Charlie’s Village’ – an Australian public hospital first, ‘village-like’ environment for patients impacted by dementia

• Programs for patient comfort, dignity and well-being in hospital wards, such as comfort packs

The Common Good has supported Caboolture Hospital since 2020 with:

• More than $260,000 of research grants supported

• More than $650,000 of research capacity building

• A refreshed paediatric ward with a kid’s retreat where children and siblings can play

• Specialised infant incubator bed for critically ill newborn babies

• VR Googles as a distraction therapy for sick and injured children in the Paediatrics Ward

• Washer and dryer in the older adult’s ward to ensure patients have fresh, clean clothing

• Sensory items to assist patients in the Adult Mental Health Unit

• Environmental improvements for the Eat, Walk, Engage Program to improve mobility, cognitive engagement and nutrition of patients as a way of preventing delirium

• iPads, therapy dog visits

This year the Foundation will share 40 inspiring stories including Community Ambassador Rhys Hoole – the 500th person to receive a heart transplant at The Prince Charles Hospital.

“Research is behind every piece of machinery and every new surgical technique,” he said.

“There were so many times research saved my life and as it gets better, it’ll go on to save even more. The impact research will have in the future is enormous.”

Foundation CEO Steve Francia said the milestone is “a moment to reflect on what has been achieved and look ahead to what’s possible when people continue to come together for the common good.”

The launch included opening a new rehabilitation pathway, developed with Prince Charles Hospital, offering patients working with allied health professionals the chance to practice real-life mobility skills in a safe and supportive environment.

There will also be the Jacaranda Gala on May 16. Inspired by trees at Prince Charles Hospital, it is the Foundation’s first major gala in more than 15 years - and open to the community.

“This is not just reflection, it’s an invitation for our community to feel proud of what they’ve helped build and be part of shaping the next 40 years of research, patient care and ultimately hope,” Mr Francia said.

“Together, we can ensure that legacy continues for generations of patients to come.”

For more information visit www.tcg.org.au/40years