On this page:
Queensland at a glance
a Queenslander is diagnosed with cancer.
cancer diagnoses occur in rural and remote Queensland each year.
invested in cancer research by Cancer Council in 2024-25.
accommodation hubs that Cancer Council operates across the state.
of travel through our Transport to Treatment service over 12,022 trips.
Everywhere in Queensland
No matter where you are fundraising, these are the services and impact areas you can talk about with confidence. Keep it simple, local and human.
Cancer research is one of the biggest reasons more people are surviving cancer today than ever before. Research leads to breakthroughs in prevention, earlier detection, better treatments and improved support services, giving more Queenslanders the chance to live longer and healthier lives.
In 2024-25, Cancer Council Queensland invested more than $9.8 million in cancer research, helping drive discoveries that will improve outcomes for people facing cancer now and into the future.
Every advancement in cancer care, from new treatments to improved survival rates, starts with research.
You could say:
“The progress we’ve made against cancer hasn’t happened by chance. Every improvement in prevention, early detection and treatment has been made possible through research. That’s why Cancer Council invests in cancer research, helping turn today’s discoveries into tomorrow’s life-saving breakthroughs. Last year alone, Cancer Council Queensland invested more than $9.8 million into cancer research.”
Every 20 minutes, a Queenslander hears the words, “you have cancer.” In that moment, life can be filled with fear, uncertainty and questions. Through Cancer Council’s 13 11 20 service, no one has to face that alone.
Last year, our cancer nurses and support specialists provided 7,824 information and support sessions, helping people understand their diagnosis, navigate treatment, access practical support and find reassurance during one of the most challenging times in their lives.
Whether someone has just been diagnosed, is supporting a loved one, or is going through treatment themselves, expert support is only a phone call away.
You could say:
“Every 20 minutes, a Queenslander is diagnosed with cancer. That moment can be overwhelming, with so many questions and uncertainties. Through Cancer Council’s 13 11 20 service, people can speak with cancer nurses and support specialists who provide trusted information, practical guidance and emotional support. Last year alone, the service delivered 7,824 support sessions, helping Queenslanders navigate some of the toughest moments of their cancer experience.”
Every 20 minutes, a Queenslander hears the words, “you have cancer.” In that moment, life can be filled with fear, uncertainty and questions. Through Cancer Council’s 13 11 20 service, no one has to face that alone.
Last year, our cancer nurses and support specialists provided 7,824 information and support sessions, helping people understand their diagnosis, navigate treatment, access practical support and find reassurance during one of the most challenging times in their lives.
Whether someone has just been diagnosed, is supporting a loved one, or is going through treatment themselves, expert support is only a phone call away.
You could say:
“Every 20 minutes, a Queenslander is diagnosed with cancer. That moment can be overwhelming, with so many questions and uncertainties. Through Cancer Council’s 13 11 20 service, people can speak with cancer nurses and support specialists who provide trusted information, practical guidance and emotional support. Last year alone, the service delivered 7,824 support sessions, helping Queenslanders navigate some of the toughest moments of their cancer experience.”
For many Queenslanders living in regional and rural communities, cancer treatment isn’t just emotionally and physically exhausting, it’s often hours away from home. Some people need to travel long distances multiple times a week for treatment, adding extra stress, cost and fatigue during an already overwhelming time.
Cancer Council’s Transport to Treatment service helps eligible patients get to the care they need when transport becomes a barrier. By making treatment more accessible, the service helps ease some of the practical burdens of cancer and allows people to focus on what matters most: their health and recovery.
No one should have to miss treatment because they can’t get there.
You could say:
“For many Queenslanders, the fight against cancer begins long before they reach the hospital. People living in regional areas may need to travel hours for treatment, often several times a week. Cancer Council’s Transport to Treatment service helps eligible patients get where they need to go, ensuring transport doesn’t stand between someone and the care they need.”
For many people in regional and remote Queensland, cancer treatment can’t be accessed close to home. A diagnosis can mean leaving behind family, work and familiar surroundings to stay near a treatment centre for weeks or even months.
Cancer Council Queensland’s accommodation lodges provide eligible patients and carers with a safe, comfortable and affordable place to stay while receiving treatment. These lodges help ease the financial and emotional burden of travel, allowing people to focus on their health and recovery.
In 2023 alone, Cancer Council’s lodges provided more than 25,800 nights of accommodation, ensuring thousands of Queenslanders had somewhere to call home while undergoing treatment.
You could say:
“No one should have to face cancer alone or spend months worrying about where they’ll stay while receiving treatment. For people who need to travel for care, Cancer Council’s accommodation lodges provide a home away from home, helping patients and carers stay close to treatment and support when they need it most. Last year alone, the lodges provided more than 25,800 nights of accommodation.”
cancerqld.org.au/support-services/how-we-can-help/accommodation/
Cancer can be an incredibly isolating experience, especially for people living in regional and remote communities. During difficult times, knowing that your community is standing beside you can make all the difference.
Every fundraiser, volunteer and supporter helps ensure that people affected by cancer can access the services, support and care they need. Together, Queensland communities create a powerful network of support that reaches people wherever they live, reminding them that they are not facing cancer alone.
When communities come together, they help bring hope, connection and practical support to those who need it most.
You could say:
“Behind every support service, research breakthrough and person helped by Cancer Council is a community that chose to make a difference.”
Remember
You don’t need to use every point in every conversation.
Choose the service or impact area that feels most relevant to the person you are speaking with. The best conversations are simple, natural and focused on what matters to them.
Region Selection
Key communities: Cairns, Mareeba, Atherton Tablelands, Cooktown, Innisfail
What to understand
People may travel long distances to Cairns for cancer treatment. For some families, treatment can mean spending weeks or months away from home.
What you can talk about here
Marylyn Mayo Lodge
Marylyn Mayo Lodge in Woree helps eligible patients and carers stay close to treatment while they are in Cairns.
Quick facts
- 14 rooms, including studios, an accessible room and two-bedroom suites.
- Located in Woree, just outside Cairns city centre.
- Only a 15-minute drive away from major hospitals and the Cancer Care Centre.
- Communal spaces include shaded pool and BBQ area.
Why it matters locally
- Supports people travelling from some of Queensland’s most remote communities, including Cape York, Torres Strait and Far North Queensland regions to access cancer treatment in Cairns.
- Cairns is a major treatment hub for Far North Queensland, meaning many guests are hundreds or even thousands of kilometres from home while receiving treatment.
- The pool, outdoor spaces and tropical setting provide a calming environment for patients and carers during prolonged treatment stays.
Video Tour
Conversation idea
“For many people in Far North Queensland, treatment can mean travelling a long way from home. Cancer Council helps people stay close to treatment and connected to support.”
Community fundraisers and volunteers
- Flower Power Fundraising Group
- Mareeba Fundraising Group
- Cairns Relay for Life Committee
Key communities: Townsville, Charters Towers, Ayr, Tully
What to understand
People often travel to Townsville for specialist treatment, which can mean time away from family, work and community.
What you can talk about here
Gluyas Rotary Lodge
Provides accommodation for eligible patients and carers who need to stay close to treatment.
Quick facts
- 20 self-contained units, including two-bedroom options.
- Located in North Ward near local amenities.
- Facilities include kitchens, washing machines, recreation room, shaded patio and BBQ area.
- Located in Townsville, close to The Strand and major treatment facilities
Why it matters locally
- Supports people travelling from across North Queensland, including rural, regional and remote communities who need specialist treatment in Townsville.
- Located near The Strand, allowing guests access to open spaces and the waterfront while staying close to treatment services.
- Self-contained units give patients and carers greater independence and comfort during longer treatment periods.
Support to mention
- Self-contained accommodation
- Practical comfort during treatment
- Support for patients and carers
Video Tour
Conversation idea
“For many North Queensland families, cancer treatment can mean being away from home. Cancer Council helps people stay close to treatment and find support when they need it.”
Community fundraisers and volunteers
- Charters Towers Branch
- Townsville Riverway Branch
- Townsville Relay for Life Committee
Key communities: Rockhampton, Gladstone, Emerald, Yeppoon
What to understand
People across Central Queensland may need to travel to Rockhampton to access treatment and support services.
What you can talk about here
Central Queensland Support Centre Lodge
Provides accommodation close to treatment for eligible patients and carers.
Quick facts
- Smaller, homely lodge with six studio rooms and two one-bedroom units.
- Located near Mater Private Hospital and Rockhampton Hospital.
- Includes garden areas, shaded patio, communal kitchen, laundry and library.
- The lodge is also conveniently located near the airport, train station, highway, shopping centre and supermarket.
Why it matters locally
- Provides accommodation for patients across Central Queensland who may otherwise face lengthy travel for treatment appointments.
- Its smaller size creates a close-knit and supportive atmosphere where guests often connect with others experiencing similar challenges.
- Being close to hospitals, transport links and essential services reduces stress at a time when patients have a lot on their minds.
Support to mention
- Accommodation close to local hospitals
- Quiet, homely setting
- Practical support during treatment travel
Conversation idea
“For people across Central Queensland, treatment can be a long way from home. Cancer Council helps people access support while they go through treatment.”
Community fundraisers and volunteers
- Gladstone Branch
- Rockhampton Relay for Life Committee
Olive McMahon Lodge
Provides accommodation close to treatment for eligible patients and carers.
Quick facts
- Recently renovated.
- 19 motel-style rooms and one two-bedroom apartment.
- Shared dining, kitchen, lounge, laundry, patio and BBQ spaces.
Why it matters locally
- Supports people from the Darling Downs and surrounding rural communities who need to stay close to treatment in Toowoomba.
- Shared dining and lounge spaces help build a sense of community and connection among guests.
- The recently renovated lodge provides a modern, comfortable environment for patients and carers during treatment-related travel.
Support to mention
- Accommodation near local hospitals
- Shared spaces for patients and carers
- Support while staying away from home
Video Tour
Conversation idea
“For many people across the Darling Downs, cancer treatment can mean extra travel and time away from home. Cancer Council helps people find support through that experience.”
Community fundraisers and volunteers
- Chinchilla Branch
- Eastern Downs Fundraising Group
- Warwick Branch
- Dalby Branch
- Kingaroy Relay for Life Committee
Key communities: Brisbane, Redlands, Bribie Island
What to understand
People travel to Brisbane from across Queensland for specialist treatment and support.
What you can talk about here
Charles Wanstall Apex Lodge
Provides accommodation for eligible patients and carers staying near treatment.
Quick facts
- CCQ’s largest accommodation hub.
- Close to major Brisbane hospitals, including Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital.
- 35 studio rooms and one, two and three-bedroom apartments.
- Located within walking distance of the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and close to other major treatment facilities.
Why it matters locally
- Welcomes patients from all corners of Queensland who must travel to Brisbane for highly specialised cancer treatment unavailable closer to home.
- As Cancer Council Queensland’s largest lodge, it supports individuals, couples and entire families throughout treatment.
- Provides free transport assistance between the lodge and key transport hubs and treatment locations.
Support to mention
- Accommodation near major hospitals
- Options for individuals, carers and families
- Support when treatment requires travel to
Video Tour
Conversation idea
“Cancer Council works across prevention, support and research. Together, these services help reduce the impact of cancer for Queenslanders.”
Brisbane Community fundraisers and volunteers
- Redlands Branch
- Bribie Island Branch
- The Pink Belles
Key communities: Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, Gympie, Noosa
What to understand
Cancer Council support is available across the region, even though there is no Cancer Council accommodation lodge based locally.
What you can talk about here
- Information and support
Anyone can call 13 11 20 for trusted cancer information and support. - Counselling and peer support
Support is available by phone, online and through referrals where appropriate. - Wigs & Headwear
Cancer Council Queensland provides support for people experiencing treatment-related hair loss.
Conversation idea
“No matter where someone lives in Queensland, Cancer Council can help with information, support and practical help when cancer affects their life.”
Community fundraisers and volunteers
- Noosa Fundraising Group
- Bundaberg Relay For Life Committee
Key communities: Cairns, Mareeba, Atherton Tablelands, Cooktown, Innisfail
What to understand
People may travel long distances to Cairns for cancer treatment. For some families, treatment can mean spending weeks or months away from home.
What you can talk about here
Marylyn Mayo Lodge
Marylyn Mayo Lodge in Woree helps eligible patients and carers stay close to treatment while they are in Cairns.
Quick facts
- 14 rooms, including studios, an accessible room and two-bedroom suites.
- Located in Woree, just outside Cairns city centre.
- Only a 15-minute drive away from major hospitals and the Cancer Care Centre.
- Communal spaces include shaded pool and BBQ area.
Why it matters locally
- Supports people travelling from some of Queensland’s most remote communities, including Cape York, Torres Strait and Far North Queensland regions to access cancer treatment in Cairns.
- Cairns is a major treatment hub for Far North Queensland, meaning many guests are hundreds or even thousands of kilometres from home while receiving treatment.
- The pool, outdoor spaces and tropical setting provide a calming environment for patients and carers during prolonged treatment stays.
Video Tour
Conversation idea
“For many people in Far North Queensland, treatment can mean travelling a long way from home. Cancer Council helps people stay close to treatment and connected to support.”
Community fundraisers and volunteers
- Flower Power Fundraising Group
- Mareeba Fundraising Group
- Cairns Relay for Life Committee
Key communities: Townsville, Charters Towers, Ayr, Tully
What to understand
People often travel to Townsville for specialist treatment, which can mean time away from family, work and community.
What you can talk about here
Gluyas Rotary Lodge
Provides accommodation for eligible patients and carers who need to stay close to treatment.
Quick facts
- 20 self-contained units, including two-bedroom options.
- Located in North Ward near local amenities.
- Facilities include kitchens, washing machines, recreation room, shaded patio and BBQ area.
- Located in Townsville, close to The Strand and major treatment facilities
Why it matters locally
- Supports people travelling from across North Queensland, including rural, regional and remote communities who need specialist treatment in Townsville.
- Located near The Strand, allowing guests access to open spaces and the waterfront while staying close to treatment services.
- Self-contained units give patients and carers greater independence and comfort during longer treatment periods.
Support to mention
- Self-contained accommodation
- Practical comfort during treatment
- Support for patients and carers
Video Tour
Conversation idea
“For many North Queensland families, cancer treatment can mean being away from home. Cancer Council helps people stay close to treatment and find support when they need it.”
Community fundraisers and volunteers
- Charters Towers Branch
- Townsville Riverway Branch
- Townsville Relay for Life Committee
Key communities: Rockhampton, Gladstone, Emerald, Yeppoon
What to understand
People across Central Queensland may need to travel to Rockhampton to access treatment and support services.
What you can talk about here
Central Queensland Support Centre Lodge
Provides accommodation close to treatment for eligible patients and carers.
Quick facts
- Smaller, homely lodge with six studio rooms and two one-bedroom units.
- Located near Mater Private Hospital and Rockhampton Hospital.
- Includes garden areas, shaded patio, communal kitchen, laundry and library.
- The lodge is also conveniently located near the airport, train station, highway, shopping centre and supermarket.
Why it matters locally
- Provides accommodation for patients across Central Queensland who may otherwise face lengthy travel for treatment appointments.
- Its smaller size creates a close-knit and supportive atmosphere where guests often connect with others experiencing similar challenges.
- Being close to hospitals, transport links and essential services reduces stress at a time when patients have a lot on their minds.
Support to mention
- Accommodation close to local hospitals
- Quiet, homely setting
- Practical support during treatment travel
Conversation idea
“For people across Central Queensland, treatment can be a long way from home. Cancer Council helps people access support while they go through treatment.”
Community fundraisers and volunteers
- Gladstone Branch
- Rockhampton Relay for Life Committee
Olive McMahon Lodge
Provides accommodation close to treatment for eligible patients and carers.
Quick facts
- Recently renovated.
- 19 motel-style rooms and one two-bedroom apartment.
- Shared dining, kitchen, lounge, laundry, patio and BBQ spaces.
Why it matters locally
- Supports people from the Darling Downs and surrounding rural communities who need to stay close to treatment in Toowoomba.
- Shared dining and lounge spaces help build a sense of community and connection among guests.
- The recently renovated lodge provides a modern, comfortable environment for patients and carers during treatment-related travel.
Support to mention
- Accommodation near local hospitals
- Shared spaces for patients and carers
- Support while staying away from home
Video Tour
Conversation idea
“For many people across the Darling Downs, cancer treatment can mean extra travel and time away from home. Cancer Council helps people find support through that experience.”
Community fundraisers and volunteers
- Chinchilla Branch
- Eastern Downs Fundraising Group
- Warwick Branch
- Dalby Branch
- Kingaroy Relay for Life Committee
Key communities: Brisbane, Redlands, Bribie Island
What to understand
People travel to Brisbane from across Queensland for specialist treatment and support.
What you can talk about here
Charles Wanstall Apex Lodge
Provides accommodation for eligible patients and carers staying near treatment.
Quick facts
- CCQ’s largest accommodation hub.
- Close to major Brisbane hospitals, including Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital.
- 35 studio rooms and one, two and three-bedroom apartments.
- Located within walking distance of the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and close to other major treatment facilities.
Why it matters locally
- Welcomes patients from all corners of Queensland who must travel to Brisbane for highly specialised cancer treatment unavailable closer to home.
- As Cancer Council Queensland’s largest lodge, it supports individuals, couples and entire families throughout treatment.
- Provides free transport assistance between the lodge and key transport hubs and treatment locations.
Support to mention
- Accommodation near major hospitals
- Options for individuals, carers and families
- Support when treatment requires travel to
Video Tour
Conversation idea
“Cancer Council works across prevention, support and research. Together, these services help reduce the impact of cancer for Queenslanders.”
Brisbane Community fundraisers and volunteers
- Redlands Branch
- Bribie Island Branch
- The Pink Belles
Key communities: Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, Gympie, Noosa
What to understand
Cancer Council support is available across the region, even though there is no Cancer Council accommodation lodge based locally.
What you can talk about here
- Information and support
Anyone can call 13 11 20 for trusted cancer information and support. - Counselling and peer support
Support is available by phone, online and through referrals where appropriate. - Wigs & Headwear
Cancer Council Queensland provides support for people experiencing treatment-related hair loss.
Conversation idea
“No matter where someone lives in Queensland, Cancer Council can help with information, support and practical help when cancer affects their life.”
Community fundraisers and volunteers
- Noosa Fundraising Group
- Bundaberg Relay For Life Committee