A Family’s Grief Creates a Legacy of Giving

A decade-plus commitment to the RBWH Foundation by Central Queensland’s Hornery family has been recognised at the 2021 Queensland Community Foundation (QCF) Philanthropist of the Year Awards.

In 2008, beloved son and brother, and doting father-of-five, Lachlan Hornery, lost his hard-fought battle against cancer. The Hornery family’s grief was matched only by their empathy and soon after the 4ULOC appeal was established.

Since then, $324,000 has been raised for RBWH Cancer Care patient services, equipment and furnishings.

Until COVID-19 restrictions, the annual fundraising highlight was a Moranbah family concert. The Hornerys also donate $25 an hour from the hire of their two 4ULOC water trucks.

“4ULOC is really important, especially for Lachy’s children,” explained Que Hornery, Lachlan’s brother.

“He was a family man, and his legacy will grow from there.”

Accompanying Que was niece Destiny, one of Lachlan’s five children.

“It’s incredible to think that we’ve actually impacted so many people’s lives,” said Destiny.

Inspired by her father’s care at RBWH, Destiny is now studying nursing and hopes to work for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.