General News
30 September, 2026
$100,000 cardiac boost
A CARDIAC CT service for Far North Queensland patients is $100,000 closer, thanks to a significant donation from a local philanthropic family.
The Mills Family Foundation, represented by Anne Mills and Liz Franz, made the donation towards the cardiac challenge, after being motivated by news stories about the planned service.
The annual bike ride, hosted by the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation, celebrated its 20th anniversary event this weekend.
The new CT service will allow people who present to the emergency department with chest pain, but are not necessarily experiencing a heart attack, to be diagnosed more quickly and either receive appropriate treatment or be safely discharged.
Foundation CEO Gina Hogan said the foundation was grateful to the Mills Family Foundation for the generous $100,000 donation and their belief in a vision for the future of cardiac care in Far North Queensland.
“This gift is a significant step towards bringing dedicated CT coronary angiography services to our region, helping patients receive faster diagnosis and reducing the need for more invasive procedures,” Mrs Hogan said.
“The support of Anne Mills, Liz Franz and the Mills Family Foundation has helped take cardiac challenge fundraising beyond $480,000 this year. Every dollar moves us closer to ensuring more Far North Queenslanders can access the care they need, close to home.”
Mrs Franz, wife of former foundation CEO Tony Franz, who died last year, said he was incredibly passionate about the event.
