Dawson digs deep for the community

Anglo American’s Dawson Mine has raised more than $35,000 to support regional families undergoing cancer treatment, sponsoring three accommodation rooms for 12 months at Cancer Council Queensland’s Rockhampton lodge.

The fundraising effort was marked by the unveiling of two haul truck trays painted pink and blue to raise awareness of breast and prostate cancer, featuring the cancer support helpline as a visible reminder for workers.

Anglo American Dawson Mine general manager Matt Stevens said the site is working on other early prevention activities to ensure team members stay on top of their health, and that the fundraiser has brought out the best in the teams working at the site.

“Cancer touches so many families, including people at our site, and we wanted to make a real difference,” he said. “By using the money raised to sponsor rooms at the Rockhampton Lodge, we’re making it easier for people from Moura and surrounding communities to get the treatment they need without the stress of travelling back and forth every day.”

Moura resident and former Dawson worker Lee Butler, currently staying at the lodge during chemotherapy, called the support invaluable.

“I do a five-day cycle so it’s good to have somewhere close to stay. It’s definitely one less thing to worry about, which is good,” he said.

Cancer Council Queensland regional manager Bianca Lagaluga said the lodge offers a home away from home for patients and their families.

“Our Sponsor a Room program isn’t just about providing accommodation; it’s about giving rural and regional Queenslanders a lifeline when they’re forced to leave their homes,” she said.

The Rockhampton hub provided more than 1700 nights of accommodation last year as part of the 25,000 nights Cancer Council Queensland supported statewide.

Dawson Mine has also partnered with Cancer Council to launch a cancer risk calculator on site, helping workers better understand their health risks and prevention options.