Each year, approximately 4,000 residents of the Sunshine Coast receive a cancer diagnosis, a statistic that underscores the growing demand for local healthcare support. Among the organizations stepping up to meet this need is Bloomhill, a Buderim-based cancer care provider, which has reported a 20 percent increase in demand for its services over recent years.
Mervat Quirke, Bloomhill Cancer Care and Development’s general manager, attributes this surge to the fact that people are living longer with cancer, necessitating ongoing support and care to maintain a healthy life post-diagnosis and treatment.
Understanding the Rising Demand
“The rising incidence of cancer is a result of better awareness and detection methods,” Quirke explained, noting that the most common types of cancer include prostate, breast, blood cancers, and melanoma, followed by colorectal and lung cancers.
She emphasized that behind every diagnosis is a journey that extends well beyond treatment. Bloomhill plays a crucial role by delivering over 800 episodes of care each month, which includes services such as oncology nursing, psychosocial support, exercise physiology, nutrition, lymphoedema management, and complementary therapies.
“Our nurse-led model of care ensures that no one faces cancer alone, but to keep up with the growing need, and as we receive no government funding, we rely on the generosity of community support and partnerships,” Quirke added.
Community Support and Partnerships
In response to the increasing demand, Warana-based custom home builder Dwyer Quality Homes has recently partnered with Bloomhill as a major local supporter. This collaboration aims to fund patient services and ensure that care remains accessible to those who need it most.
Alex Dwyer, managing director of Dwyer Quality Homes, expressed pride in supporting Bloomhill and the transformative work they do for the local community.
“Cancer touches so many families, and it’s important to help where you can,” Dwyer said. “I remember my mum volunteering for Bloomhill when I was young, so it’s an organization that’s very important to our family.”
A Personal Connection and Commitment
As Dwyer Quality Homes celebrates its 40th anniversary, the partnership with Bloomhill symbolizes a commitment to supporting a long-standing local charity that assists staff, clients, and friends in myriad ways.
“We are looking forward to forming a strong and ongoing partnership with Bloomhill,” Dwyer continued. “Not only are we committed to funding important support services, but we will also encourage and support our team members and suppliers who wish to contribute their time and talents through volunteering initiatives.”
The Path Forward
The collaboration between Bloomhill and Dwyer Quality Homes represents a significant step in addressing the challenges posed by an increasing number of cancer cases on the Sunshine Coast. As Bloomhill continues to provide essential care without government funding, the support from local businesses and the community becomes ever more crucial.
With cancer rates expected to rise further due to improved detection and an aging population, the need for comprehensive support services will only grow. Bloomhill’s efforts, bolstered by partnerships like that with Dwyer Quality Homes, highlight the importance of community involvement in healthcare support.
Looking ahead, the focus remains on expanding these partnerships and securing additional funding to ensure that no one faces the cancer journey alone. The commitment from local businesses and volunteers will be vital in sustaining and enhancing the care and support provided to those affected by cancer in the region.