March 2026

Welcome to the March edition of Heartly News! This is where we share stories that show the real impact of your support – moments of hope in action that help children thrive, belong and reach their full potential, regardless of disability or circumstance.

Along the way, we’ll also share ways you can get involved, including upcoming events like this year’s Magic Round Long Lunch and Celebration of Friendship Golf Day. But first, let’s dive into another inspiring story made possible by you!

A stroller that opens the world for Sammy

6-year-old Sammy is a bright, much-loved boy who lives with his parents, Sandra and Robert. In 2021, Sammy was diagnosed with Mabry syndrome, an extremely rare condition that affects only a small number of children worldwide. Sammy is currently the only child in Australia known to be living with this condition.

As Sammy grows, his needs grow too. His old pram was no longer suitable, but a specialised stroller that would safely support him cost $4,683.

That’s where Variety Queensland stepped in.

Thanks to a Variety grant, Sammy now has a stroller designed to support his body and help him comfortably access the world around him.

“The stroller has truly changed Sammy’s life,” Sandra said. “He can now visit shopping centres, restaurants, and so many other places with comfort and ease. Seeing him happy, comfortable, and able to be part of everyday activities means the world to us. We are incredibly grateful for a stroller that truly meets his needs and gives him greater freedom and joy.”

“The support from Variety has been truly life-changing for Sammy and our whole family. We are deeply grateful for the difference it has made in our lives.”

With the right support, children like Sammy can continue exploring their world, connecting with their community, and growing toward their full potential.

Where Coming Together Creates Magic for Kids

Footy fans – don’t miss out! Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of great food, great company and plenty of footy banter at the Variety Magic Round Long Lunch on Wednesday 13 May all while supporting Queensland children who are sick, experiencing disadvantage or living with disabilities to live without limits.

We’ll be joined by “Queenslander” NRL legend Billy Moore, Brisbane Broncos NRLW champion Ali Brigginshaw and State of Origin superstar Corey Parker!

Your ticket includes canapés on arrival, a two-course lunch, a four-hour house beverage package, plus a live auction and raffles featuring incredible prizes.

This event is the perfect intro to Variety. If you know any individuals or businesses who may like to reward their team by swapping the boardroom for the Long Lunch, please forward this on and encourage them to enjoy a premium afternoon of fun with us!

Celebration of Friendship Golf Day 2026

We’re looking forward to another unforgettable day of friendship, golf and giving at the 2026 Celebration of Friendship Golf Day on Friday 24 July. Held at the stunning RACV Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast, the day invites you to form or join a team and enjoy a delicious lunch on arrival, 18 holes of golf, and a celebratory dinner – with the option to stay on and unwind in 5-star accommodation.

Along the way, there’ll be plenty of chances to win great prizes, including a $5,000 Hole in One.

By taking part, you’ll be helping Variety – the Children’s Charity of Queensland support children who are sick, experiencing disadvantage, or living with disabilities to live without limits. Gather your mates now and let’s tee off for a day to remember!

The Impact We’re Creating Together

We believe it’s important to share a monthly snapshot of the impact of your support. Included in the figures shown above were two significant community grants for Surfing the Spectrum Foundation, an initiative connecting children with autism to local surfers in order to provide free surf lessons and Lilly Pilly, a supervised children’s contact centre supporting families experiencing separation, court involvement, disability, trauma, and social or financial disadvantage.

Our grants are open year-round. If you know a child, school or community organisation who needs support, we’re here to help. Click here for more info.

What’s on the Calendar?

Variety is a big family of fundraisers, and there’s always a way to get involved. Explore our supporter events taking place right across Queensland or check out some of our key 2026 events below to see where you too can make a difference.

Building a Brighter Future
Takes All of Us

Thank you for reading our Heartly newsletter! We so appreciate your interest and support. Please feel free to forward this on to anyone who may be interested in learning more about Variety and encourage them to subscribe.

Questions? marketing@varietyqld.org.au