On a perfect Queensland winter’s day, our community came together trackside for One Sunny Race Day – and what a day it was! With sunshine overhead and generosity in the air, the event was not only a celebration of fashion, fun and racing but also a powerful display of compassion and support for families with ill and injured children.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our attendees, sponsors and supporters, we are proud to share that over $100,000 was raised for Ronald McDonald House Charities South East Queensland (RMHC SEQ). These vital funds will go directly to providing a home-away-from-home for families in need.
While the track was filled with excitement, the true heart of the day belonged to the Mudge family, who shared their deeply personal journey with our guests.
Their eldest daughter Ellie was just four years old when she was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma – a rare and aggressive tumour based cancer. Her journey has been one of courage, strength and resilience. Throughout treatment, the Mudge family comfort, connection and crucial support at RMHC SEQ, staying close to the hospital and to each other during one of the most difficult time in their lives.
To help others better understand and navigate the challenges of childhood cancer, friends of the family created a children’s book titled Where’s Ellie’s Hair? As part of the event, the family generously donated 20 copies of the book to be auctioned off and given to families staying at RMHC SEQ. The books raised an incredible $5,200 – and in a powerful moment of generosity, one inspired guest matched the donation, bringing the total to $10,400 raised from Ellie’s story alone.
Their story was a moving reminder of why we come together on days like this – to help ease the burden for families like the Mudge’s, so they can focus on what matters most: being there for their ill or injured child.
Every dollar raised from One Sunny Race Day will go directly towards providing essential accommodation and support programs for families with ill and injured children. That means a warm meal after a long day at the hospital, a safe and cozy bed to sleep in, and the relief of knowing they’re not alone.
This event alone will fund over 625 nights of accommodation in our Ronald McDonald Houses.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. Whether you bought a ticket, bid in the silent auction, or simply showed up with your smile and generosity – you made a difference.
We are so grateful to everyone who helped make One Sunny Race Day such a success, and we look forward to welcoming you back next year for another unforgettable day at the races, all in support of families with ill or injured children.
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