Gumlu’s Morning Tea Raises $1363 For Cancer Council

Gumlu held its 11th AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST MORNING TEA at the Molongle Beach Caravan Park shelter by the seaside on Sunday 8th June, on a magnificent north Qld winter’s morning, enjoying the filtering in of the warm sunshine. The total raised was $1363 with a crowd of 50 people. Many travelled from Bowen and the Burdekin regions to enjoy the annual gathering.

We always try to invite guest speakers from CCQ or people whose personal lives have been affected by cancer. This year we had the privilege of listening to Jayne Henry from Kingscliff, NSW. She was visiting her brother and niece in Gumlu. She gave a heartfelt briefing of the affliction of cancer in her own personal life. From as young as 30, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, followed by bowel cancer ten years later. Then breast cancer presented. She is now seven years clear post breast cancer. Many in her family have battled cancer. Her own mum was afflicted when Jayne was very young, but has survived and lives on at the age of 83. Jayne developed a passion for music when young and is now a professional solo singer, singing all genres including pop rock country. She gave us an ‘a cappella’ rendition of Mercedes Benz, which had the whole group clapping in time. We were all touched by her resilience, after surviving these traumas. We thanked her for her passion to inspire and deliver positive messages.

The morning continued as usual with a large array of sweets, teas and coffee. Almost 100 prizes were for grabs in the Cent Sale and major Raffle draws. Major prizes included a Yeti Hopper Flip 8 cooler and a large dart board. Winners could go to the tables and choose their prize. Also everyone was guaranteed to go home with something. There was also the guessing of lollies and teabags in jars, as well as a 50s board. Gumlu’s local State School Principal, Thomas Harrington was the MC and ensured all ran smoothly. A round of trivia once again proved an interesting hit while socializing.

Big thanks to all for attending and contributing to a worthy cause and to the people who helped to set up and run the morning. Special thanks to the following who contributed to the major raffle: Gumlu State School, Thomas Harrington, Gumlu Tavern, Molongle Sandbar Cafè, Complete Pharmacy (Home Hill), Perries IGA (Bowen), Vicki Quirk, Anna Hinchliffe, Cathy Ford, Maria Totorica and Cameron Pugh for the mudcrabs.

We reflect on the reason why we gather. We trust that each of us do make a very valuable contribution, even if small, to the efforts of committed people in the medical and health profession working towards a vision of a cancer-free world. Special blessings to those who have chosen these vocations in life, for the betterment of humanity.

Contributed with thanks to Regina Lequerica (host)

The 11th Gumlu Biggest Morning Tea
Gumlu State School Principal and MC Thomas Harrington with helper Tony Battiston
Helpers Savannah, Bonnie and Ella
Guest Speaker Jayne Henry with helping niece Amy Pfingst

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