The impact of our donors is truly remarkable
Here are just a few of the incredible ways they’ve helped support the work of Darling Downs Health:
Therapy Dog, Toby serves patients in Oakey
Therapy Dog, Toby, and his handler Chade provide comfort and joy to residents and staff at the Dr EAF McDonald Residential Aged Care in Oakey.
The Foundation have funded training for Clinical Nurse, Chade to undertake official training through Therapy Dogs Australia to become a Therapy Dog Handler.
“The residents and families are very excited, however, I think the biggest excitement and benefit has come from the staff. The stress relief and comfort it gives them during a shift makes it so worth the effort.”
Chade | Dr EAF McDonald Residential Aged Care in Oakey
Duodenoscope for Endoscopy Unit
An additional duodenoscope now enables staff within the Endoscopy Unit of the Toowoomba Hospital to better serve patients with advanced medical tools.
The Unit has seen an increase in demand for the service, as staff are now able to provide as much care as possible closer to home without having to refer patients to Brisbane.
Virtual Reality Goggles for Paeds and Emergency Wards
Two Virtual Reality Goggles, one for the Paediatric Unit and one for the Emergency Department are now serving as a great distraction for patients who are having painful procedures undertaken at the Toowoomba Hospital.
The goggles improve the patient and caregiver experience and work to reduce procedural anxiety.
Emergency Department Family Room Refurbishment
The newly refurbished family waiting room in the Toowoomba Hospital is now kitted out with a variety of items funded by THF.
This family room is now used to provide a quiet, calm space for relatives of patients in the resuscitation area of the hospital. It is also a space where family members can wait while their loved one is undergoing procedures or tests, or to make refreshments during a difficult time.
Opportunity to upskill for Physiotherapy Staff
Fourteen Physiotherapy staff at the Toowoomba Hospital had the opportunity to upskill during a training session. Our super Physiotherapy staff are now equipped with cutting-edge skills that are already making a difference to patients across the region.
This training session was made possible thanks to funds raised through the 2021 Freedom Lifestyle & Fitness Pink High Tea event and a previous S&T Glass and Toowoomba Fasteners Golf Day.
Practical experience for junior medical officers
Junior medical officers who took part in the recent Advanced Skill Workshop at Rural Medical Education Australia, had the opportunity to test their skills with the brand new Clinical Pelvic Trainer under the guidance of Medical Director, John Douyere (pictured).
Equipment like this plays a pivotal role in mastering vital skills and preparing medical staff in training for real world medical scenarios.
Streamlining systems with a new MEQU blood warmer
The Toowoomba Hospital now have an additional MEQU blood warmer for the Critical Care Ward. This portable system efficiently rapidly heats fluids and blood from cold to body temperature within seconds. The blood warmer stands as an indispensable device in the treatment of critical patients, playing a pivotal role in preventing complications.
Completion of Toowoomba Hospital Neonatal Unit Refurbishment
Decorative decals have been installed Toowoomba Hospital Neonatal Unit, which turns these sterile hospital spaces into havens of comfort and serenity for families navigating the delicate journey of neonatal care. Simple changes to hospital spaces such as this can make a world of difference to families in need of a calm and comforting space.
Purchased from funds raised through during our 2022 Christmas Appeal.
Education Sessions for Darling Downs Health Staff
Three education sessions were held at the Toowoomba Hospital featuring Michael Jeh, a DV Prevention Educator representing the Small Steps 4 Hannah Foundation, who spoke about the legacy of Hannah Clarke and her children. The purpose for these sessions was to empower and educate Darling Downs Health staff about coercive control warning signs based on Hannah’s Story.
New Sensory Room for Jacaranda Unit
Mental Health consumers in the Jacaranda Unit at Baillie Henderson Hospital now have access to a Sensory Room, which is a supervised, therapeutic environment equipped with sensory-based tools.
The Foundation assisted in funding wallpaper (chosen by the residents) and a massage chair.
Ultrasound System for Nanango Hospital
The Sonosite PX Point-of-Care Ultrasound System allows clinicians to perform a rapid bedside assessment, aiding diagnosis, reducing clinical risk, and improving clinical outcomes. This donation is an equipment first for Nanango Hospital, which previously didn’t have its own Ultrasound.
Purchased from funds raised through the Great Western Road Trip.
Equipment for the Student Nursing Training Program
Three vital signs monitors with stands, one blood pressure cuff and one electrocardiogram machine, are now all being used to train local 2nd and 3rd year nursing university students at Toowoomba and Baillie Henderson Hospitals.
Cardiac Monitors for Medical Assessment Planning Unit
Four portable cardiac monitors with consumables, are now in use within the Toowoomba Hospital MAPU, helping staff to deliver appropriate and timely cardiac care for patients.
New mini fridges for the Oncology, Haematology, and Palliative Care Ward
Replacing old and outdated fridges, the ward now has new mini fridges in the inpatient ward next to every bedside to aid infection prevention for immunocompromised patients.
Medela Symphony Breast Pumps
These hospital-grade, multi-user symphony breast pumps are proving to be a game-changer for the Extended Midwifery Community Service at Toowoomba Hospital, providing comfort and peace of mind to new mums in the program.
Mammography and Biopsy Stretcher Chair for BreastScreen
Can be used as both a chair and bed to help make undergoing a nerve-racking biopsy more comfortable and safer for patients whose screening results show anything unusual.
Funded with thanks to Fitzy’s Colour of Change Luncheon
Courtyard Furniture at Cossart House
The Toowoomba Hospital Allied Health Team can now enjoy their breaks year-round with new outdoor furniture and umbrellas.
Active Birth Pool and Ceiling Hoist
Toowoomba Hospital Birthing Suites now have a new Active Birth Pool and ceiling hoist to give birthing mothers a safe and comfortable option during labour and birth.
Surgical 2 Wait Room Upgrade
The Foundation purchased new furniture, including lounges, single tub chairs, a coffee table, an entertainment unit and baskets to house books and activities, and a new tea and coffee station complete with an espresso machine, microwave and mini fridge for the Surgical 2 Wait Room.
"I was surprised to hear that the Physiotherapy team can see up to five women every week for new or routine appointments, so it’s a real feel-good moment for all of us at the Speedway to know our event is now helping women diagnosed with breast cancer from the entire region. It was incredibly rewarding and fulfilling to see and understand how their fundraising efforts are aiding in the care of breast cancer patients."
Ryan Harris | Hi-Tec Oils Toowoomba Speedway Events Manager
What We Funded
2023 / 2024 Financial Year
Education, Training & Professional Development
| Application and Area | Item Requested | Amount |
| J.W. Perinatal Mental Health | The Marce Society and Helen Mayo House Joint Perinatal Mental Health Conference in Adelaide - 7-9 September 2023 | $2,000 |
| K.A. Dietitian | Online Course - The Low FODMAP Diet for IBS | $627 |
| G.T. The Cunningham Centre | Certificate III Sterilisation Services | $715 |
| J.S. The Cunningham Centre | Certificate III Sterilisation Services | $1,582 |
| S.B. Clinical Midwife | Australian College of Midwives National Conference in Adelaide | $1,300 |
| M. T. Pastoral Care | Annual retreat for Pastoral Care volunteers | $290 |
| E. M. GARSS Baillie Henderson Hospital | Monash Health AHA Day | $80.72 |
| D. M. Maternity | Medela Symphony Breast Pump | $4,468.13 |
| C. R. Dr EAF McDonald Nursing Home, Oakey | Therapy & Dog Handler Certification | $2,110 |
| M. W. Physiotherapy | Oncology Scar Workshop | $19,600 |
| J. U. Paediatrics Ward | 15th Annual APS/ISPAD Diabetes Workshop in Adelaide | $1,676.82 |
| J. V. Toowoomba Hospital | 15th Annual APS/ISPAD Diabetes Workshop in Adelaide | $1,271.27 |
| S. M. Darling Downs Health | RBWH Lower Body Lymphoedema Training Module | $2,000 |
| A. S. Toowoomba Oral Health | Certificate III in Dental Assisting | $1,450 |
| N. H. Toowoomba Oral Health | Certificate III in Dental Assisting | $1,450 |
| N. H. Toowoomba Oral Health | Certificate III in Dental Assisting | $1,450 |
| A. H. Darling Downs Public Health Unit | Australian Public Health Conference | $2,000 |
| A. M. Indigenous Health | Of BBQ: Yarning circle and radio messaging: Community engagement key to success | $1,579.68 |
| N. G. Darling Downs Public Health Unit | Australian Public Health Conference - Presenter "Active Monitoring of adverse events using SMS in an Aboriginal Community" | $2,000 |
| S. S. Darling Downs Public Health Unit | Australian Public Health Conference - Presenter "Active Monitoring of adverse events using SMS in an Aboriginal Community" | $1,579.68 |
| S. W. Darling Downs Public Health Unit | Australian Public Health Conference - Presenter - Utilisation of REDCap for Public Health Response: Lessons Learnt - Conference | $2,000 |
| A. S. Toowoomba Oral Health | Certificate III in Dental Assisting | $1,450 |
| N. H. Toowoomba Oral Health | Certificate III in Dental Assisting | $1,450 |
| A. H. Darling Downs Public Health Unit | Australian Public Health Conference | $2,000 |
| A. M. Indigenous Health | Of BBQ: Yarning circle and radio messaging: Community engagement key to success | $1,579.68 |
| N. G. Darling Downs Public Health Unit | Australian Public Health Conference - Presenter "Active Monitoring of adverse events using SMS in an Aboriginal Community" | $2,000 |
| S. S. Darling Downs Public Health Unit | Australian Public Health Conference - Presenter "Active Monitoring of adverse events using SMS in an Aboriginal Community" | $1,579.68 |
| S. W. Darling Downs Public Health Unit | Australian Public Health Conference - Presenter - Utilisation of REDCap for Public Health Response: Lessons Learnt - Conference | $2,000 |
| H. P. Child Health | APLS Australia Conference | $1,920 |
| J. W. Physiotherapy, Toowoomba Hospital | Workshop: Focus on Helping therapists to minimise lower limb impairments post-stroke | $1,440 |
| T. H. A&TSI Health Worker, Indigenous Health | NAATSIHWP Professional Development Symposium | $2,095 |
| L. M. Sonographer, Toowoomba Hospital | 1 Day Course on Ultrasound of the Lower Limbs | $1,074 |
| Z. W. AODS, Cherbourg | 7th National Social and Emotional Wellbeing Forum | $2,000 |
| L. G. AODS, Cherbourg | 7th National Social and Emotional Wellbeing Forum | $2,000 |
| R. O. Nurse Practitioner, Emergency Department | Advanced Paediatric Life Support Course | $1,920 |
| S. S. Toowoomba Oral Health | ADAQ Certificate III in Dental Assisting | $1,450 |
| C. C. A/CN Bladder Cancer, Urology | USANZ and ANZUNS Urology Conference | $1,450 |
| S. B. HP4 | Emanual Kanal's MRI Safety Course | $1,835 |
| S. A. Advanced Cardiac Scientist HP5 | ANZ Cardiac Scientist HP4 | $443 |
| K. N. Toowoomba Oral Health | Certificate III in Dental Assisting | $1,450 |
| S. S. Toowoomba Oral Health | Certificate III in Dental Assisting | $1,450 |
| A. R. Medical Imaging | MRI Safety Course | $2000 |
| D. H. Toowoomba Oral Health | Certificate III in Dental Assisting | $1,450 |
| H. W. BreastScreen | BreastScreen Australia Conference | $2,000 |
| E. P. Senior Peer Coordinator | Women's Leadership Conference | $2,000 |
| C. D. HP3 | MRI Safety Course | $2,000 |
| L. B. HP4 | SHPA Extension Seminar | $460 |
| L. F. Radiographer | BreastScreen Australia Conference | $1,853.90 |
| S. P. HP4 | BreastScreen Australia Conference | $2,000 |
| R. M. Clinical NRG6 | BreastScreen Australia Conference | $2,000 |
| J. D. NRG6 | BreastScreen Australia Conference | $2,000 |
| R. E. Senior Radiographer | BreastScreen Australia Conference | $1,546.37 |
| E. B. Support Officer | Diploma in Government | $2,000 |
| E. W. Senior Pharmacist | Nicotine Addiction, Smoking & Vaping Cessation | $1,750 |
| L. P. Pharmacist, Transition Care Program | 3 Day Seminar Pharmeducation Masterclass | $2,000 |
| Total | $102,958.80 |
Equipment & Facilities Enhancement
| Application and Area | Item Requested | Amount |
| Women's & Children's Services | 2 x Breastfeeding chairs | $1,200 |
| Mortuary Attendant | Outdoor table | $2,743.40 |
| Jacaranda Unit | Message Chair - Jacaranda Unit | $2,495 |
| Mental Health | WIFI for Mental Health (Part Funding $50k Mental Health funds) | $33,781.70 |
| Mental Health | WIFI for Mental Health (Part Funding $50k Mental Health funds) | $50,000 |
| Medical Imaging | 2 x Philips Sparq Ultrasound Point of Care probes | $23,598 |
| Medical Unit 3 | Roller Blinds for room 1 - 12 | $11,180 |
| BreastScreen | 5 x Dell Monitors and 5 x Dell OptiPlex | $8,802.75 |
| Ward 6D | 5 stools | $1,245 |
| SASS and Emergency Department | Clothes | $2,000 |
| BreastScreen | Foam wedges | $741.40 |
| Ward 6D | 5 stools | $1,245 |
| SASS and Emergency Department | Clothes | $2,000 |
| BreastScreen | Foam wedges | $741.40 |
| Ward 6D | 23 Bar fridges for Ward 6D (Oncology) | $5,612 |
| Physiotherapy | SOZO Machine | $19,285 |
| Radiography | Skeleton for practical demonstration of radiographic positioning | $351.65 |
| Endoscopy Unit | Olympus Duodenoscope | $48,319.83 |
| Paediatrics Unit | 2 x ensuites for single room and pan room | $180,000 |
| Volunteer Program | Patient Transport Golf Buggy | $24,675 |
| ADTW | Portable ECG Machine | $2,513.69 |
| Nursing & Midwifery Education & Research | ECG Rhythm Simulator | $7,586.52 |
| Qld Rural Generalist Pathway | Clinical Female Pelvic Trainer | $5,857.50 |
| Emergency Department | Smiley Scope VR Goggles | $6,270 |
| Midwifery | Bladder Scanner Workstation, system and printer kit | $16,951 |
| Midwifery | Lifepack 15 Defibrillator | $32,229.65 |
| Medical Unit 1 | 10 High Back Chairs and 18 Tray Tables | $11,792.10 |
| Taroom Hospital | Neonatal Resuscitation Panda Warmer | $30,360 |
| Phillips Ward, Warwick Hospital | 2 x Talley-Quattro Plus MRS Mattresses | $12,017.50 |
| Clinical Measurements, Kobi House | EEG Machine | $26,440 |
| Phillips Ward, Warwick Hospital | Bladder Scanner | $16,951 |
| Critical Care Ward | MEQU Blood Warmer | $7,524 |
| Ridley Unit, Baillie Henderson Hospital | Christmas Gifts for patients | $1,440 |
| Goondiwindi Hospital | Design for playground | $3,200 |
| COHS | 3 x Sectionall Electric Medical Table | $2,899 |
| Ultrasound, Medical Imaging | Thermal Paper Supplies to print foetal ultrasound images | $2,500 |
| Paediatrics Unit | GE Bilisoft 2.0 Phototherapy System | $8,613.66 |
| Medical Unit 3 | 7 x Welch Allyn Vital Signs Monitors | $38,205 |
| Goondiwindi Hospital | Nitrous Delivery System | $17,479.53 |
| Central Sterilising Department | MDCD Kangaroo Medical Drying Cabinet | $26,000 |
| Warwick Hospital | 5 x Welch Allyn Connex Vital Signs Monitors | $27,099.32 |
| Dalby Hospital | Alaris PK Nexus Syringe Driver | $4,238 |
| Midwifery Educators | PROMPT Global Training Package | $20,000 |
| Chinchilla Hospital | 5 Lt Devilbiss Oxygen Concentrator | $2,027.49 |
| Toowoomba Hospital Oncology | Sterimesh Wire Compactor Storage System | $9,050.80 |
| Oakey Hospital | Outdoor Furniture for Sunset & Sunrise Room | $5,000 |
| Oakey Hospital | Furniture for Recreation Room | $5,000 |
| Miles Hospital | Blood Collection Chair | $1,215 |
| Miles Hospital | Baby Change Table | $780 |
| Karingal Aged Care | Observation Machine | $4,738.48 |
| Dental, Southern Downs | Xsmart Endo Motor | $4,238.26 |
| BreastScreen | Shirts & Embroidery | $1,865 |
| Day Oncology and Outpatients Unit | Renovations of Cancer Care Services Pharmacy and Day Onvology Unit Storeroom | $38,218.45 |
| Safety and Wellbeing Services | ARJO Maxi Move, Sara Plus, Sara Stedy and Carendo, JD Healthcare Hover Jack System & 2 x Hillrom Bed and Mattresses. |
$78,199 |
| Clinical Measurements, Kobi House | Echo Machine | $338,217 |
| Karingal Aged Care | 5 x Patient Hoists | $42,840.50 |
| Total | $1,289,639.37 |
Research
| Application and Area | Item Requested | Amount |
| M.B. THF/2023 R1 - 05: Bilateral scaphoid symmetrt: comparative geometry and volume | Increase to Research Budget | $3,571.10 |
| D.R. Novice Researcher | How do clinicians sustain research activity alongside clinical workload? | $5,220 |
| G.P. Novice Researcher | Effect of Computer-based upper limb therapy delivered using AbleX for acute stroke patients: A randomised controlled trial. | $15,423 |
| Total | $24,214.10 |
Scholarship
| Application and Area | Item Requested | Amount |
| Master of Nursing - Majoring in Advanced Practice | Increase to Research Budget | $5,000 |
| J. J. MAPU | Graduate Certificate in Leadership (Health and Human Services) | $2,843.60 |
| A. S. Central Sterilisation Services Department | Certificate III in Sterilisation | $3,170 |
| R. T. Toowoomba Hospital | Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing - Acute Care Nursing | $5,700 |
| C. C. Community Care Allied Health | Master of Dementia | $6,500 |
| S. B. Nurse Educator | Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Clinical Education) | $4,308 |
| C. M. Nursing | Graduate Certificate in Nursing - Anaesthetic and Recovery | $1,320 |
| Total | $28,841.60 |
Become a regular giver
Your ongoing and regular support ensures that every dollar of your donation goes directly to assisting Darling Downs Health patients and staff across our region's hospitals and health services. Join us in making a lasting difference and ensuring a brighter, healthier future for all.
