Sandgoannas pitch in to support vital Central West health service

Barcaldine Sandgoannas have displayed their extraordinary commitment to their community by raising funds to support a vital health service for cancer patients in the region.

Thanks to the efforts of a dedicated group of Sandgoannas volunteers and passionate members, patients at Barcaldine Multipurpose Health Service now have a comfortable new chair to use while undergoing tele-chemotherapy.

The club donated the new Quantum treatment recliner chair and remote control – valued at nearly $10,000 – after a successful Ladies Day fundraiser.

Barcaldine Sandgoannas president Rhys Peacock said the club successfully auctioned their 2024 custom-made jerseys as part of the fundraising event.

“It’s good to know that patients have comfort, and it was good to learn that it’s not only helping benefit Barcaldine patients,” Peacock said.

Sandgoannas secretary and Central West HHS revenue officer Renee Searles further explained the significance of the fundraising efforts.

“This time was more giving back to a facility within our town, a chair like this that supports not just the residents of Barcaldine, but a particular service, and it’s something that is an asset to the Central West and the community,” Searles said.

“It is very comforting to know that for people who are going through not such great times in their lives, we can provide some sort of comfort to them when they’re coming in to receive treatment.”

The recliner chair has been an instant hit with patients, including long-time rugby league supporter Louise Baillie.

A Blackall resident, Baillie cheers for her grandson when he takes the field for the Blackall Magpies in the Central West Rugby League.

However, Baillie is happy to leave club rivalries to another time given the tremendous support of the Barcaldine club.

“It’s amazing. It’s really good of them,” said an upbeat Baillie, who is displaying positive signs in her treatment for pancreatic cancer.

QRL Central chair Danny McGuire congratulated the Sandgoannas on their fundraising initiative.

“It really does warm the heart to see a dedicated group of club volunteers putting their hands up to support the wider community,” McGuire said.

“This particular donation will support a really important health service for many years to come and is yet another example of the positive social impact that local rugby league clubs have on communities.”