General News
10 October, 2025
Carnival funds local health
Maryborough District Health Service (MDHS) has received a donation from the Rheola Charity Carnival committee, which will fund upgrades to facilities at Dunolly Residential Community.
Rheola Charity Carnival committee president Matt Catto formally presented the donation to MDHS’s Dunolly campus last Tuesday.
“The carnival has always been about bringing people together and giving back. Supporting Dunolly Residential Community is one of the most meaningful ways we can make a difference,” he said.
The volunteer run festival has taken place on Easter Monday annually since the 1870s to raise money for local health services and community needs. Over those years, funds raised by the event have contributed to many projects at Dunolly Residential Community, including the refurbishment of facilities, purchases of essential equipment and improving programs for both patients and residents.
MDHS CEO Nickola Allan said the combined funds received through the carnival from 2023 to 2025 will go toward extending facilities offered at the Dunolly campus.
“We are developing a salon-style space within the home to provide hairdressing and grooming services for residents. This will support the dignity, comfort and wellbeing of residents as part of their daily living experience,” she said.
“These enhancements will contribute to better services and outcomes for the community, ensuring the space meets current and future needs.”
Ms Allan said MDHS is extremely grateful for the continued support of the Rheola Charity Carnival committee.
“We congratulate the committee on the successful carnival and look forward to the next chapter in this valued community partnership,” she said.
“This is not only a fun and important community event but also a vital fundraiser that directly contributes to the health and wellbeing of people across our region and we are incredibly thankful for the committees’s ongoing generosity.
“The partnership now spans most of the event’s remarkable 152 year history and remains one of our most valued community relationships.”