The year began in familiar and heart-warming fashion at the Yeppoon Town Hall, where the Country Music Group once again filled an afternoon with singing, dancing and generosity. Their decade-long commitment to CapRescue has now raised more than $100,000 — a remarkable milestone achieved through talent, dedication and community spirit. From there, momentum built quickly.
Throughout March and April, dog trials, tennis clubs, mountain challenges, agricultural field days, local cafés and more all chose to support the rescue helicopter. These events not only raised essential funds but strengthened understanding of just how vital a rapid-response service is in a region where medical care often has significant distance to travel.
That message resonated strongly with families living on large properties, people working along remote highways, and island residents who know the challenges of isolation. On Facing Island, residents helped create a Thankful Thursday for the crew with heartfelt messages of gratitude.
Rural communities rallied behind our service through donations, auctions and other events across the region. Campdrafts dominated fundraising in 2025, contributing more than $80,000 — an extraordinary effort from incredible committees at events like Mostly Hills, Clarke Creek, Marlborough, Ridgelands, Paradise Lagoons, Comet River and Palmgrove Pintpot.
Support flowed from workplaces too, with businesses lending equipment, offering matched-giving programs, donating prizes and holding internal fundraisers across Central Queensland and even in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast. Our own fundraising events across the region also brought out incredible generosity from golfers, prize donors, colour run participants, degustation attendees and business sponsors who continue to show up year after year.
Some moments throughout the year were light-hearted — like the mining conference where a few attendees accidentally thought they were being asked to donate to “cat rescue” — while others were personal and meaningful. We welcomed supporters who had once been our patients, returning with donations or words of appreciation that meant as much to the crew as any contribution.
In addition to community fundraising, major grants and vital in-kind support — such as the waiving of airport landing fees by Rockhampton Regional Council — also financially strengthened our operational capability.
And then there were the many quiet acts of generosity — the businesses that gave without seeking acknowledgement, the people who donated anonymously, the community members whose stories never made it online but whose support still helped fuel missions across Central Queensland. Every gesture, big or small, has helped Rescue300 continue reaching towns, islands, highways, properties and communities when they need it most.
As we look back on this year’s Thankful Thursdays, the message is unmistakable: this region cares about keeping its rescue helicopter in the air. To everyone who contributed, shared a story, hosted an event, donated a prize, or simply offered words of thanks — we are truly grateful. Rescue300 continues to fly because of you. Your kindness keeps this service strong, responsive and ready to help, wherever and whenever it’s needed.