Suncorp Stadium has donated its biggest cheque ever following its Annual Charity Golf Day presented by Programmed Property Services which raised $100,000 for Hear and Say and new charity partner, Centacare’s Real and Diverse (RAD) inclusive theatre group.
The giant cheque was painted on the famous turf last Thursday with representatives from Hear and Say and RAD on hand to witness the unveiling.
In its 14th year, the Annual Suncorp Stadium Charity Golf Day presented by Programmed Property Services has now raised over $680,000 for charities with the 2024 total the largest in the Stadium’s history.
General Manager of Suncorp Stadium Alan Graham said he continues to be blown away by the monumental support the day receives.
“We have some incredible sponsors and donors who have been with us since day one who ensure the day is such a great success,” he said.
“Hear and Say and Centacare RAD inclusive theatre group, both do an incredible job supporting Queenslanders and Suncorp Stadium, being an iconic Queenslander itself, is proud to be able to support them”.
“RAD is a new beneficiary this year and is a group of people who epitomise the Queensland spirit of getting in and giving-it-a-go.”
“The performances the group put on are life-changing so make sure you head along next time you get the chance to see one,” said Mr Graham.
General Manager Alan Graham with members of Hear and Say, Centrecare and Centrecare's RAD Inclusive Theatre Program
RAD forms a special part of Centacare’s social and life skills offering which supports people with disabilities to meet new people, learn new skills and build confidence in the areas that matter to them most.
The highly innovative RAD ensemble works with a world-class production team of artists and musicians to put on an annual show at QPAC.
"We are deeply grateful to Suncorp for choosing to support Centacare through this generous donation," said Centacare Services Director Deb Clark. "It’s wonderful to see the RAD program continue to thrive, providing a platform for artists with disabilities to pursue their passions and share their creativity with the community.
Clark Crystal, Artistic Director of the RAD Theatre Group said, “The Suncorp donation brings artistic confidence and security for future RAD projects, enabling our artists to bring their dream projects to life. The joy I feel watching our artists share their stories on stage and create theatre through the RAD program is immense - it truly represents the pinnacle of my work.”
The other half of the $100,000 was donated to long-term charity partner Hear and Say who have been associated with the Stadium since the Golf Day inception back in 2010.
Hear and Say Acting CEO/Chief Operating Officer Sharon Stokell said, “For over 14 years, Suncorp Stadium has been a vital supporter of Hear and Say through the Annual Suncorp Stadium Charity Golf Day and various fundraising initiatives.”
“This ongoing partnership has enabled Hear and Say to provide the invaluable gift of sound and speech to children affected by hearing loss, empowering them to reach their full potential.”
“We’re excited to continue the relationship between Suncorp Stadium and Hear and Say for many more years to come!”
The Annual Suncorp Stadium Golf Day presented by Programmed Property Services is a highly anticipated event with many calling it the best corporate golf day they’ve been involved with and a wait-list already live for 2025.
Apart from the Annual Golf Day, the Stadium - which is managed by ASM Global on behalf of Stadiums Queensland - is very active in supporting charities and community groups.
This year alone, the Stadium has provided 450 tickets as prizes for local auctions and raffles helping to raise an estimated $315,00 for community groups.
In September, Suncorp Stadium also successfully partnered with Act for Kids in the Stadium of Hope initiative raising money and awareness for children and their families who are victims of neglect or abuse.
On Christmas Day, the Stadium will again open its doors to provide a gourmet three-course Christmas lunch including take away essential packs and gifts for kids along with entertainment for 200 homeless and disadvantaged with the help of Communify and the O’Brien Group Australia.
Another regular community initiative is the support provided to 42 for 42 which assists Afghanistan veterans and their families who this year held their 9th Annual 42 Hour Challenge.
Mr Graham said he was proud of the impact the Stadium’s outreach programs have on the Queensland community and the impacts they make to the Stadium’s charity partners.
