For the second year in a row, inspiring 16-year-old girl Taya Rush, is hosting what is expected to be another exciting Charity Golf Day to raise much-needed funds for the RACQ CQ Rescue Chopper. After three years of on-going fund raising for the organisation, Ms Rush remains determined to help keep people living in remote and rural areas safe as she emphasises the importance of the local chopper, ensuring those in need have access to the service.
Helicopter services like RACQ CQ Rescue are commonly called out to aid individuals injured by rural accidents, boating accidents or any type of emergency situations that aren’t within the radius of a nearby hospital. At times, a helicopter transportation can be the only chance of survival for those in a critical condition.
The young and passionate fundraiser says she has chosen to raise money specifically for CQ Rescue Chopper for a number of reasons.
“One of the reasons why I find it so important is because my family now owns a farm,” she shared.
“The chopper is a community funded rescue service, that any one of us could need in an emergency. RACQ CQ Rescue attend a variety of emergency situations including car, boat, motorbike and bushwalking accidents.”
Ms Rush competed in the 2023 RACQ CQ Rescue Talent search, hosted by Brooke Lee Modelling and was Crowned Overall Charity Princess for her fundraising efforts last year. Major sponsors supported her 2023 Charity Golf Day, such as Emerald Carrying Company who will be contributing once again at this year's 2024 event.
Last year’s charity event raised just over $13,000, with funds directly donated to RACQ CQ Rescue. Since last year’s success, Ms Rush has opened up more sponsorship opportunities for this year’s 2024 event, aiming for a bigger target of $20,000 to help keep the chopper in the air.
Participants can expect a day filled with fun at the upcoming RACQ CQ Rescue Charity Golf Day event this year. Starting from 11am on the 19th of April, partakers are encouraged to wear navy blue and yellow apparel to support the RACQ CQ Rescue organisational colours.
“Charity Golf days are a great way to network with other businesses in the area while enjoying a round of golf,” explained Ms Rush.
“Everyone last year had a great time on the golf course, with team bonding, meeting new people and supporting a charity at the same time. It's always good fun after the golf to go back to the clubhouse for raffles and auctions.”
Sponsorships are available to help support the cause with a range of different options and packages to suit all who are willing to support. With priced sponsorships ranging from as little as $100 to as high as $2500. Donations are also appreciated if participants can’t attend the day but would like to still contribute.
A number of major local businesses have jumped on board to help donate to the good cause, including well know companies such as; Elastomers Australia, Absolute Enterprises, Frontline equipment, MI Scaffold, Emerald Carrying Company, Construction supplies, Rasmussen accountants, Ryan Taylor Carpentry, Degoey and Pims, just to name a few.
With a heartfelt desire to support the organisation, Ms Rush says she has received an immense amount of support from the community whilst raising funds for the rescue chopper in an attempt to continue to save lives across the region.
“The community have been very supportive of this event, most people in the Mackay community know someone who has needed the services of CQ rescue at some point, people understand how valuable the service is for the region and this is where the community comes together,” Ms Rush emphasises.
Starting out small, Ms Rush originally began raising money for CQ Rescue by selling chocolates and socks, as well as organising children’s’ farm visits. Her dedication to expanding fundraising efforts is inspiring and encouraging as she continues to be a voice and an advocate for local and rural members of the community in need of a helicopter rescue service when accidents arise.
“I love being able to make a difference in the community,” she said.
“Deciding last year to try a golf day was a lot of hard work but it was also a huge success.
“You can make a difference if you put some time and effort in. It's important to contribute to the community,”
As Ms Rush continues to advocate for those in need of emergency assistance, she stands as a beacon of hope and compassion, demonstrating that even the smallest efforts can lead to significant change. With positions still available for sponsorship, now is the perfect time for businesses and individuals alike to join in supporting this worthy cause to keep our rescue choppers in the air. To contribute, contact the Mackay Golf Club for more information.
Caption 1: 16-year-old Taya Rush, was crowned Overall Charity Princess in the 2023 RACQ CQ Rescue Talent Search
Caption 2: RACQ CQ Rescue Helicopter service