john cummins memorial fundraiser

Last night I joined with fellow Greens to attend the John Cummins Memorial Fund Dinner. The dinner raises funds to support the wellbeing of cancer patients diagnosed with a brain tumour and support social inclusion for young people experiencing financial disadvantage.




















From left to right: Colleen Hartland - MLC for Western Metro, me - candidate for Eastern Victoria, Sue Pennicuik - MLC for South Eastern Metro and Kathleen Maltzhan - candidate for Richmond.

The John Cummins Memorial fund was established in 2007 in honour of John Cummins who died from a brain tumour at age 58. John was president of the CFMEU (Victorian branch) from 1996 to 2006. He dedicated his life to workers, particularly in the construction industry, for the improvement of their health, wellbeing and standing in the community. He was a political and social activist with many campaigns under his belt. This was the third dinner held in John's honour.

So far $152,725 has been distributed, these funds have helped to fund a part time health worker to support patients and carers at the Austin as well as the Melbourne City Mission palliative care equipment, scholarships for secondary and tertiary students and funds for the North Heidelberg Junior Football Club too.

The event was very well supported with hundreds attending the dinner, it was a terrific night, dedicated to a man who was totally committed to working people.