General News
2 September, 2025
Students get more help
MORE than $80,000 has been raised at AFL Cape York House Foundation’s inaugural gala dinner at Cazalys Cairns.
The event brought community leaders, supporters and partners for an evening of inspiration and impact, raising more than $80,000 to support programs that empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students living away from home, helping young people to access education, cultural connection and support in a safe and nurturing environment.
Guests were treated to powerful Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dance performances, followed by an inspiring onstage panel discussion featuring AFL chief executive officer Andrew Dillon, two AFLCY House alumni Yehusha Lifu and Anthony Nicholls, as well as current student Mistee Sagigi.
AFLCY boys house manager Kane Ritcher said there was “such a great vibe in the room, with passionate engagement from the crowd (during the auction)”.
“People were genuinely excited to bid, but more importantly, they understood the difference their contribution would make for our young people. It was certainly a fun auction, with the entire crowd involved in the laughter and antics,” he said.
The feature item up for grabs was a Toyota Prado GXL donated by Pacific Toyota, which went to highest bidder Damien Ingram. The Prado was a significant contributor to the gala event’s overall fundraising total.
AFL Cape York general manager Rick Hanlon said it was important to have a major item for the auction.
“Our goal was to create a community event that offered the people of Cairns a meaningful opportunity to support AFL Cape York programs and we’re proud to say we achieved every objective we set,” he said.
High demand saw all tickets snapped up before the event, true to the community’s continued support of the foundation’s mission to empower young people through continuing educational and sporting opportunities.
“AFL Cape York House Foundation is proud to walk alongside students and families, building stronger futures through opportunity, culture and care,” Mr Hanlon said.
