Connecting community through passion and joy
Starlight’s partnership with Evolution Mining's Ernest Henry Operations near Cloncurry began with a simple, fun idea.
In 2021, the team started an annual friendly tug-of-war competition. Two years later, when Sean Burge, Jumbo Operator at the mine brought the D-Crew team together for the event, the fun team-building exercise became something even more meaningful.
The Crew chose Starlight as their charity of choice for that year’s event and raised an incredible $29,823.
The decision for Evolution Mining to continue their generous support came after Sean experienced Starlight’s impact first-hand.
“A week after my grandson was born, he underwent bypass surgery. During this difficult time, I saw the joy and hope that Starlight provided for our family,” he said.
It was a moment that inspired Sean and the team to expand their support even further.
The tug-of-war quickly became an annual event that sparks friendly competition, laughter and unity - all while raising vital funds for seriously ill children.
Thanks to their incredible commitment, the partnership has helped bring fun, joy and distraction to thousands of seriously ill children and their families.
This annual event is now the highlight for the community, eagerly anticipated by miners and their families, and through local posters, emails and word-of-mouth, participation has been growing each year.
Over time, additional elements have been added to enhance team engagement and to help boost fundraising, including raffle and auction prizes. Some team members even forfeit their raffle winnings to re-enter them into the auction, raising even more money. The spirit of giving is simply phenomenal.
Thanks to generous donations from suppliers, contractors and the incredible support from staff, the annual fundraising total has risen year on year. Since the first event, the partnership has raised a staggering $144,000 to brighten the lives of 3,690 seriously ill children.
The partnership with Starlight also provides miners and the community an opportunity to connect, have fun, and do something meaningful together, particularly when they are away from their families.
“Our fundraising events for Starlight reinforce staff morale, build stronger relationships with partners and suppliers, and really show our company’s values in action,” said Dave Jacobson, Mine Foreman.
Now in its third year, the relationship continues to go from strength-to-strength testament to the commitment and mutual value.
Trudy Cortis, Systems Co-Ordinator said meeting Starlight families like Jarrah’s has been one of the most inspiring and rewarding aspects of the partnership.
Jarrah was just ten when he was diagnosed with Ewings Sarcoma - an aggressive form of bone and tissue cancer. He endured nearly a year of gruelling cancer treatment and has ongoing tests to monitor his condition.
Now aged, 18 with an interest in a career in mechanics, Jarrah had the incredible opportunity to visit the Cloncurry mine site.
Jarrah was excited to meet with different team members and learn about their jobs.
The underground tour was an absolute highlight, and Jarrah went home inspired for the future and with memories he’ll remember forever.
“Jarrah and I want to say a massive thank you. The trip to Cloncurry exceeded our expectations and blew our minds. Everyone that we were lucky enough to spend time with shared their skills with Jarrah and he’s very grateful for those opportunities. We will remember your generosity, sense of humour, knowledge and kindness.” His mum Beck said
Each year, the Ernest Henry team go above and beyond to create unforgettable experiences for Starlight children and their families.
“The joy and excitement on the children’s faces is priceless and we know it creates memories that will last a lifetime.” said Trudy
The success of the partnership is driven “from the ground up” by the whole team’s dedication, care and generosity. Looking ahead, they’re excited to welcome more Starlight kids and maintaining the strong human connection that defines this partnership.
“Our partnership with Starlight keeps growing year on year. Collaboration, leadership and shared values make it meaningful, innovative and sustainable. What started out as a bit of fun is getting bigger and brighter every year because we’re all here for the same purpose - to put smiles on the faces of sick kids and their families,” Sean said.
Our warmest thanks to the entire Ernest Henry Operations community for creating such a meaningful relationship that creates lasting happiness for so many seriously ill children and their families