Who’s Who in 2022, Community: U3A Redcliffe

Members from U3A Redcliffe have raised thousands of dollars to help researchers find a cure for childhood cancer following a successful morning tea fundraiser.

The fundraiser, which was held on Saturday, May 14, raised $6693 which was donated to the Children’s Cancer Institute - Australia’s only independent medical research wholly dedicated to curing childhood cancer.

The event was organised by U3A member Margi Woodhead, who told Moreton Daily in June she was thrilled with how successful the fundraiser was.

“We were over the moon with how much money we raised. We didn’t expect to reach that amount,” Margie said at the time.

“The generosity of the Redcliffe community is amazing.”

Children’s Cancer Institute Executive Director Professor Michelle Haber AM was also pleasantly surprised by the donation, and thanked U3A Redcliffe for its ongoing support.

“The Institute is so appreciative of generous communities of people, like those from Moreton Bay, who come together to raise vital funds for our research,” Michelle said.

“You are helping us to make significant discoveries leading to new treatments for children with cancer.

“We absolutely believe that, with the support of the community, we will find a cure for every child in the foreseeable future.”

The Children's Cancer Institute's vision is to save the lives of all children with cancer and improve their long-term health.

Their motto is "It's not if. It's when". They believe a 100 per cent cure rate is possible - it's just a matter of time and effort.

Thanks to medical research, the overall survival rate of children with cancer is now over 80 per cent.

However, there are still more than 1000 children diagnosed with cancer every year in Australia, and about three children dying from cancer every week.

About U3A Redcliffe

U3A, which stands for the University of the Third Age, is a worldwide self-help organisation promoting learning for personal enjoyment and wellbeing

The word university is a loose term because there are no academic requirements and no exams – just fun activities to help older citizens keep their brain active, learn new skills, maximise their chance at independence and make new friends.

On the Redcliffe peninsula, U3A Redcliffe Inc is the largest over 50s organisation for those who have retired or are semi-retired.

This volunteer-run organisation hosts a wide array of courses including various craft workshops, music classes, computers and technology, languages, as well as physical health and wellbeing.

Members also enjoy several social activities held throughout the year, including trivia events, bus trips, fundraisers and lunches.