In May 2024 a fundraising event was held for one of our members, Bob Drew, who was seriously injured and left a quadriplegic after a riding accident. Organised by his local New England and Peel Branch members Greig STIER, Steve BRADSHAW, Phil O’REILLY, Matt LYNCH and Wayne BIFFIN, the event successfully raised substantial funds for Bob’s care and future wellbeing.

Ironically, the winner of the fundraiser draw for a holiday at Palm Cove was none other than Bob’s granddaughter, Olivia Bruce!

The RFPA made a substantial contribution, in the form of local tourism and hospitality add-ons at no cost to the winner.

Email from Olivia Bruce to the RFPA Secretary.

‘It’s unfortunate that my grandfather, Pa is in a wheelchair now. It’s as simple as that. It was a consequence of doing what he really loved, riding his horse in preparation for attending the 2023 Royal Easter Show in Sydney as he had done every year all of my life. That consequence changed the course of my family’s life forever. It is not an entirely bad thing though, the accident has reminded us, that family is and will always be the ‘secret to a happy and well-lived life‘.

Attending Pa’s Benefit Luncheon on 17th May earlier this year, gave me an opportunity to experience a dream holiday. Yes, I was the lucky person who won first prize in the raffle. A seven night holiday in Palm Cove cleverly curated by Jim Thompson and Joanne Robinson and the Former Police Officers Association of New South Wales.

In October, my partner Jack and I, greatfully flew to Cairns and embarked on a week of much anticipated fun. Jim and Joanne warmly greeted us in the beautiful tropical surrounds of the well appointed apartment complex ‘ Reef Retreat’ – Palm Cove. 

Jim had organised for us to cruise the Daintree river with Lady Douglas River cruises, hover over the renowned Daintree Rainforest with Kuranda Skyrail and snorkel the Great Barrier Reef with ’The Silver Series’ day experience. This was the highlight of our week.

We cruised around Palm Cove, Port Douglas and Cairns in our included rental car, we ate locally grown produce at many restaurants and cafes. We also booked a table at ‘Vivo Restaurant’ Palm Cove for my 21st birthday dinner. Tropical far north Queensland is wonderful place to celebrate a milestone birthday.

I may be young but developing my perspective is what Pa’s accident has taught me. Looking for intention and joy in exploring new places like Palm Cove, spending time with loved ones and being greatful for the support of others near and far is essential. And that’s where the magic in this experience lies. The support of those who have played a part in Pa’s life, career and since the accident are the real heroes here. I’m just the lucky grand daughter who won a prize from the support of Pa’s friends.