To mark their 50th year in operation in 2021, BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA)’s Goonyella Riverside Mine (GRM) in Queensland donated $50,000 in support of Moranbah community initiatives.

“Without the community, we don't exist, whether it's the schools or the health services or critical services like CQ Rescue choppers,” said Goonyella Riverside Mine General Manager Sean Milfull.

As part of the ’50 for 50’ campaign, community organisations and local businesses were invited to apply for grants of up to $10,000 for initiatives that improve the liveability and vibrancy of Moranbah in the Bowen Basin.

Goonyella Riverside team members were then called on to vote for the shortlisted community applications and chose to support five initiatives from CQ Rescue Chopper, Moranbah Hawks Football Federation, Moranbah District Support Service, Moranbah State School and ELAM community services.

From building a cyclone shed for sports equipment at the local football club, to disadvantaged youth support programs as well as funds to keep rescue choppers in the air and saving lives – the donations will reach right across the region.

“It's almost a symbiotic relationship with the community where we're feeding off each other. For us, it's absolutely critical that we ensure the sustainability of critical services, whether it be health, education or community groups.  And it's something we're very passionate about at Goonyella,” Sean said.

Upon receiving the donation from Goonyella Riverside, CEO CQ Rescue, Ian Rowan said:

“The government funding covers us for some very basic operational costs, but the reason we can operate here from Mackay and cover the whole of Central Queensland is in fact because of the additional money coming from the community.

“It's so important that we offer a service that operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, which means we've got to have the helicopters and the crew available for that time. It costs money to keep them serviceable, keep them flying, and to pay everyone's wages. So it's vitally important that we get the funds from the community to support the service,” Ian  said.

“I think everyone's got a story about the CQ chopper. When I'm out in town and hear that chopper, it's never a good sound, but it gives you some comfort knowing they're there and we need them to continue on. Thank you for the service – we do appreciate it and we'll do everything we can to help going forward,” Sean added

Thank you to all the 50 for 50 applicants and happy 50th birthday Goonyella!