May 2026

Welcome to the May edition of Heartly News.

These newsletters are our way of sharing the real, tangible impact your generosity has on children across Queensland who are sick, experiencing disadvantage or living with disabilities.

As we head into the end of the financial year, it is one of just two times a year we put out a special call for support. Your donation right now can help vulnerable young people living with disabilities through Variety’s Financial Literacy Program.

Click here to donate today or scroll down to see how your support is making a difference.

Empowering young people with life skills that matter

As Australia continues to grapple with a cost-of-living crisis, we believe it is more important than ever to empower young people with the financial skills they need to manage, protect and save their money.

This is why Variety Queensland has started Australia’s only Financial Literacy Program geared toward young people in Grades 10-12 living with disabilities, who may face additional barriers to building financial independence and can be more vulnerable to exploitation.

Our Financial Literacy workshops take place in special schools across Queensland, led by trained facilitators who create fun, memorable and engaging sessions tailored to individual strengths and learning styles.

Here’s a video that shows how it works!

Can you help?

Variety Queensland has committed $167,000 to deliver 147 Financial Literacy sessions across more than 15 schools over the next two years, supporting more than 600 young people.

Your donation today can help equip a young person with the skills and confidence to navigate money safely, build independence, and work towards their full potential, regardless of ability or background.

All donations in May-June 2026 will go toward Variety’s Financial Literacy Program as part of our EOFY Appeal.

The Variety QLD team recently visited Goodna Special School to see our Financial Literacy Program in action – we were so inspired by these young people building their confidence and financial literacy!

Creating waves of hope for children – 2026 Yamaha Variety Jet Trek

The 2026 Yamaha Variety Jet Trek has officially wrapped up, with more than 70 PWC riders travelling 560 kilometres along the Queensland coast, creating waves of hope for children.

From 3-9 May, Jet Trekkers travelled from Townsville to Mackay, stopping in communities including Ayr, Bowen and Airlie Beach, while also taking in the stunning Whitsundays.

But the Jet Trek is about far more than the adventure.

Like all Variety Queensland motoring events, the Jet Trek raises vital funds while delivering practical support directly to children, families, schools and community organisations along the route. This year alone, more than $178,000 in grants was distributed across Queensland.

We invite you to read the full story of the incredible impact of this year’s Jet Trek – and while you’re there, explore our brand-new website!

Creating Possibility Together

In April, Variety Queensland gave out significant grants including an air conditioner/purifier for a child with restrictive lung disease; a sensory swing, trampoline and clothing for an 8-year-old girl who couldn’t access help through the NDIS; a communication device for a 4-year-old boy also declined by the NDIS; and stationery items, a regulation space for students with extra needs, and winter uniforms for a regional school. 95 Queensland kids attended the Financial Literacy Program in April.

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.

Do you know a child with talent, passion and determination across the arts, education and sport? Now is the time to talk to their family and determine if Variety can support the next stage of development in their chosen field. Variety Heart Scholarships are open 1 July-31 August 2026. Please visit our website for more info.

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.

We are also looking for sponsors! Packages start at $1,000 – and you can advertise your business on one of the beautiful tees at Royal Pines. Click the link above or get in touch with Matthew for more info.

What’s Coming Up

Thank you to everyone who supported our recent Variety Magic Round Long Lunch! Explore our upcoming events below.

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