Proving that charity doesn’t just begin at home – it can also begin at work – Director of Research at Redcliffe Hospital, Associate Professor Joel Dulhunty, has been awarded Emerging Philanthropist of the Year at the Queensland Gives Philanthropy Awards.
As a visionary behind Raise it for Redcliffe, Joel has helped raise over $1.1 million in less than 5 years, funding more than 70 projects that have improved patient care, staff wellbeing and research at Redcliffe Hospital.
From cycling 2,600km to completing a 500km Penny Farthing marathon, Joel doesn’t just fundraise, he volunteers, advocates, educates and inspires.
“The partnership between our community and hospital to Raise it for Redcliffe is really valuable,” said Joel. “It builds a connection and common purpose between our staff, local business leaders and our broader community to make a difference for others.
“The outcomes from that partnership are both tangible and intangible – from transforming our rehab and palliative care units, funding valuable research and supporting innovative programs of work, to fostering those important feelings of generosity, purpose and connection.”
Best known for his ‘unique’ take on cycling – astride an enormous penny farthing – Joel is all about building a community of care.
“Cycling for me is something that's meaningful and enjoyable and it was just a way that I could personally give back. When we were prioritising fundraising for the hospital, it was like, ‘well, how can I be part of that?’
“The penny farthing brings a smile to lots of people's faces, and the spin-off has been being able to talk about what's going on in the hospital – the research and the patient care initiatives. It's been a fantastic journey.”
