April 2026

Welcome to the April edition of Heartly News.

Not long ago, none of us could have predicted the financial pressures now being felt around the world. Closer to home, many Queensland families are navigating rising costs and tough decisions – and for children who are already disadvantaged, it’s often the small things that can make a powerful difference.

In this edition, we’re sharing how Variety Queensland is helping children stay connected, express themselves and feel included through access to iPads and AAC devices – tools that are opening doors in ways that matter deeply.

When a device becomes a lifeline

Right now, more families across Queensland are being forced to make impossible choices. With rising costs, even the basics are slipping out of reach. And sometimes, what’s essential isn’t recognised as such.

An iPad, costing around $1,500 to $1,700, might not seem critical on paper. But for many children, it’s the key to learning, connection and communication. Even with a NDIS plan in place, this vital tool isn’t always funded.

That’s where Variety Queensland steps in.

“I am struggling with school fees and with the extreme rental cost, I am financially drowning. I truly appreciate the consideration.”

In each case, Variety Queensland granted iPads, providing not just a device, but a pathway forward.

At the same time, more families are reaching out for AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) devices. For children who communicate differently, these tools can be life changing.

Kristianne Marshall, a mentor at Variety Queensland’s Motor Mouth Camp, who attended our AGM last year, shared:

“AAC doesn’t replace speech. ACC replaces silence. It gives people like me a voice, a choice, confidence, independence, the power to connect, to share who they are, and to be understood.”

As Kristianne reminds us, communication is more than words – it’s connection, expression, and being seen.

Through iPads, AAC devices, and programs like Variety Queensland’s Motor Mouth Camp, children who are sick, experiencing disadvantage or living with disabilities are finding their voice – and stepping into their full potential.

Connor, an AAC user, attended last year’s Variety Motor Mouth Camp. We’re looking forward to hearing from his dad, Christopher, at the Variety Magic Round Long Lunch.

Final Call for Tickets

There are less than two weeks to go to get your tickets to the Variety Magic Round Long Lunch! Join us on Wednesday 13 May for an unforgettable afternoon of great food, great company and plenty of footy banter 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.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Celebration of Friendship Golf Day 2026

We’re looking forward to another day of friendship, golf and giving at the 2026 Celebration of Friendship Golf Day on Friday 24 July. Held at the 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 in need. Gather your mates now and let’s tee off for a day to remember!

The Impact We’re Creating Together

It has been another busy month of impact at Variety Queensland. The 7 grants depicted above translated into $44,191 of funds distributed for children in need of our support. Next month will be even busier as we take part in the Yamaha Variety Jet Trek, which will see an incredible $178,051 distributed! Follow our new Variety QLD Motoring Events Facebook page to stay up to date.

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.

Variety Queensland is seeking professionals and individuals with demonstrated expertise in sport, the arts, education or relevant lived experience to join the Variety Heart Scholarships Committee in a volunteer capacity.

Variety Heart Scholarships support young people aged 6-17 who are sick, experiencing disadvantage or living with disabilities, and who have a demonstrated talent in sport, the arts or education – helping them reach their full potential and pursue their goals.

🕒 Commitment: approx. 10 hours between June and September 2026
📅 Expressions of interest open now, with appointments confirmed May 2026

Check out the role description and register your interest here.

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