Cluden Park Nominates Charity for 2yo Classic Race Day

Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) North Australia is Cluden Park’s nominated charity for the 2021 2yo Classic and Family Fun Day.

RMHC North Australia’s mission is to improve the health and well-being of seriously ill children and their families through practical care programs. For every ticket purchased $1.00 will be donated to the charity who are committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people.

Cluden Park would like to share the touching story of the McBryde Family, who were able to witness first hand the generosity of RMHC North Australia. 

In August 2020 at 23 weeks pregnant I experienced serious pregnancy complications. Upon presenting to the Rockhampton Base Hospital, they identified that I was in pre-term labour and immediately sent me to Townsville. I was admitted to Maternity Ward at Townsville University Hospital and my husband, Tommy, was offered a room at Ronald McDonald House, less than a 4 minute walk adjacent to the Hospital.

On the 4th September 2020, I suddenly went into labour and Tommy was able to reach me very quickly due to being so close at Ronald McDonald House. Our Son Harry was born at 2:22am at 24 weeks and 3 days, weighing a tiny 700gms. Harry then spent 14 weeks in the Neonatal Unit at Townsville University Hospital growing stronger every day. Our 2 year old daughter was able to join us at Ronald McDonald House allowing us to stay together as a family.

Being able to stay so close to our son in hospital, as well as have our daughter stay with us in our own private room was something we will be forever thankful for. In times of need, family is what keeps you going and the motto of ‘Keeping Families Close’ is so powerful and important when you are going through an extremely traumatic time. Leaving Ronald McDonald House was such a bittersweet moment for us.

This place had become our home and the staff had become our second family. You can’t go through something like that without being forever changed and having your eyes opened up to the incredible work this charity does.

Thanks to this amazing organisation, that burden of finding somewhere safe to stay with your family is completely lifted. It’s a gift that, unless you have experienced it yourself, is priceless.

Thank you Ronald McDonald House - we will be forever grateful for your hospitality, warmth and generosity during a truly trying time for our family.

Cluden Park are pleased to have the opportunity to host RMHC North Australia families, volunteers and staff during the day, offering free entry, free rides and comfortable race viewing.

Purchase your tickets to the 2yo Classic and Family Fun Day here.

Learn more about how Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia help others here.