Wishlist was created in 1998 with the aim of fundraising for the needs of the Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service. Since that time, Wishlist has raised over $17 million with the help and generosity of the local community for the Coast’s local health system.
Wishlist serves all areas of the local public health system and is committed to fundraising for a range of equipment needed throughout the district which currently includes the five main public hospitals along with numerous ancillary services that make up our local public health system.
Wishlist pledges $1 million annually towards a number of initiatives including:
Reed House
Reed House is Wishlist’s emergency hospital accommodation facility. This facility is available to patients, carers and immediate family members whilst their loved one is undergoing treatment at Nambour, Selangor, Caloundra and the Sunshine Coast University Hospital.
Situated next to the Nambour General Hospital Emergency Unit, the 20 room facility offers affordable private accommodation with communal living, cooking facilities, special needs rooms, laundry facilities, bed linen and towels as well as lift access, ample on-site parking and a playground for the little ones. Self-contained rooms are also available for those with special needs.
Built by generous contractors and local construction company, RCQ, the impressive facility is the result of collaboration between The Reed Charity Foundation, Wishlist, the Australian Red Cross, local Rotary Clubs and the wider community.
In 2012 after 3 years of fundraising, the Doug Biggs Memorial Sky Bridge connected Reed House directly to Nambour General Hospital to significantly improve access for patients.
Research Grants
As part of their $1 million commitment to Sunshine Coast health services, Wishlist offers a research grant round.
Wishlist has directed more than $1.5 million towards local research projects to support the Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service.
In 2017 Wishlist actively engaged with corporate and community supporters to fundraise for research, something previously not attempted by their organisation, and with truly impressive results.
For eligibility criteria for each category, please email SC-Research-Grants@health.qld.gov.au.
Staff Scholarship Funding
Any staff member within the Sunshine Coast Hospital & Health Service is eligible to apply for educational funding from Wishlist.
These scholarships are designed to assist staff in attending relevant professional conferences, seminars and workshops (including inviting speakers to the SCHHS).
For several years, Wishlist has provided $100,000 each year to the Staff Scholarship Fund. This education funding is available for any staff member – full time, part time or casual, in any department.
Music Therapy
The Music Therapy program is funded by Wishlist through donations to the Dove Palliatve Care Unit so patients and their families can receive the priceless gift of music.
Music therapy is the intentional use of music to actively support people’s health, functioning and wellbeing.
Registered Music Therapists incorporate a range of music-making methods within and through a therapeutic relationship to support people of any age and ability regardless of musical skill, culture or background.
Click here to support the Music Therapy service at Dove Palliative Care
The Wishlist
Of course, one major focus that Wishlist has is their eponymous wishlist, which helps them find donors to fund the equipment needs of the local health system.
From funding innovative medical research to purchasing vital equipment and upgrading services, your support will change the lives of Sunshine Coast patients and their families.
Wishlist Fun Run 2020
Now in its third year, the Wishlist Fun Run is an annual event that’s fun for schools, families, individuals and corporate team building. You will never lose sight of the water on their course around Lake Kawana.
There’s something for everyone with live entertainment, massages, face painting, jumping castle, fresh fruit, BBQ and drinks.
If you would like to get involved with one of the fundamental supports of our local health system, consider taking up one of their volunteer positions.
