The Big Fundraiser Shoutout

Read the nominations

Kristina Wall - WomenCan for Australia New Zealand Gynaecological Oncology Group

"Kristina has made an exceptional impact on our organisation in a very short time. Just 6 months into her role, she's increased appeal income by 26% and increased our number of new donors by 224%. A remarkable result that reflects her strategic thinking and dedication to donor-first communications. Her ability to analyse past campaigns, refine messaging, and drive new fundraising tactics has not only boosted revenue but also deepened supporter connection and loyalty. 
 
Beyond the numbers, what sets Kristina apart is her collaborative spirit. She works seamlessly across departments, building strong relationships with all teams to ensure fundraising is aligned with the wider organisational goals. Her respectful, solutions-focused approach has created a positive ripple effect throughout the organisation, continuously improving the wider fundraising culture.
 
Kristina's contribution is both measurable and inspiring. She is not only delivering outstanding fundraising results, but also strengthening our culture of teamwork and innovation. Her achievements over such a short amount of time make her a standout nominee for this award."

Nominated by: Bec Weeden, WomenCan for Australia New Zealand Gynaecological Oncology Group

Vicki James - Muscular Dystrophy Queensland

(1st Nomination)

'Vicki is an unsung hero and an absolute gift to fundraising. She has a heart as big as Phar Lap and through many years of fundraising at various Charites and organisations has helped thousands of people impacted by challenging medical and personal circumstances.

In addition, Vicki still finds the time to volunteer her own time to worthy causes on a regular basis. I can' think of anyone more deserving to receive this reward and recognition."

Nominated by: Joe Hanlon, Gold Coast Hospital Foundation

Vicki James - Muscular Dystrophy Queensland

(2nd Nomination)

'I'm writing in support of the existing nomination for Vicki James. Like many Vicki became came to fundraising accidentally - during her previous career in nursing, in 2001 when nominated and subsequently winning nurse of the year - this led to fundraising for Cancer Council and began her career as a fundraiser.
 
We're so proud to have Vicki leading MDQ's Fundraising & Marketing functions. Throughout my career, I've worked with many fundraisers but have never known another so giving of their time and energy, not only to progress the work of MDQ but to support the many other causes Vicki is involved with in her own time; volunteering weekly to feed people living rough with Rosies, serving on the Gold Coast grants committee with Qld Gives, even hosting fundraising functions in her home and generally keeping a rather full calendar of fundraising and community events. Vicki truly embodies what it is to be a ‘fundraiser’ and is very deserving of this award.
 
Vicki also gives back to the fundraising profession; through volunteering with FIA and warmly mentoring her colleagues, not only within MDQ but through her networks within the fundraising community."

Nominated by: Penny Deavin, Muscular Dystrophy Queensland

Tessa Harlock - In Noah's Name

"As CEO of Motherhood Village, I am proud to nominate Tessa Harlock, founder of @In.Noahs.Name, for her extraordinary contribution to supporting bereaved families and creating lasting impact through fundraising in memory of her son, Noah.

Tessa tragically lost Noah to stillbirth at 32 weeks. In the depths of her grief, she chose to honour him in the most generous way, by helping others. Through her first fundraising gala, she raised over $63,000, donating cuddle cots, stillbirth journals, grief resources and keepsakes to Gold Coast University Hospital and other Gold Coast and Australian Hospitals to support families newly bereaved.

Through @In.Noahs.Name she also lovingly creates memory boxes to ensure no bereaved parent feels alone in those early, devastating moments. These are not just items, they are symbols of understanding, connection and support.

At Motherhood Village, I have witnessed Tessa’s immense compassion and strength firsthand. She shares her story and gives so much of herself to others, all while navigating her own grief and memories.

Tessa goes above and beyond in every way. Her courage, care and commitment to helping other families makes her an inspiration, and someone who I’m proud to know and nominate, and whose story truly deserves to be shared."

Nominated by: Tracey Tyley, Motherhood Village

Sarah McCahon - Muscular Dystrophy Queensland

"Sarah joined Muscular Dystrophy Queensland just over a year ago in her first fundraising role as Events Coordinator — and she has truly hit the ground running. Like many in fundraising, Sarah wears multiple hats with enthusiasm and grace. When our Marketing Coordinator departed, Sarah stepped up and took on those responsibilities in addition to her own. 

She recently coordinated her first Brisbane Broncos 50/50 game, which raised a record-breaking amount — the most successful match MDQ has ever delivered. She’s also our in-house designer and resident data whiz, bringing fresh energy and tech-savvy solutions to every challenge. 

But what really sets Sarah apart is her infectious passion. She genuinely loves what she does and isn’t shy about sharing it — I often hear her telling others she has the best job in the world. Her drive, willingness to step outside her comfort zone, and deep desire to make a difference make her a standout. 

As her (unofficial) mentor, I’m incredibly proud of her growth and commitment. Sarah embodies the heart of fundraising and deserves to be recognised."

Nominated by: Vicki James, Muscular Dystrophy Queensland

RSL LifeCare Team - RSL LifeCa

"This year RSL LifeCare has laid strong foundations for a small but mighty fundraising team— leveraging diverse skills and bringing together talented staff from across the Strategy, Marketing & Communications and Veteran Services teams. 

We’ve clarified roles and responsibilities across key fundraising pillars—Grants, Bequests, Corporate & Community Partnerships, Events and Community Fundraising. Together, the team has set clear FY26 goals and ensured fundraising efforts are strategically aligned with RSL LifeCare’s purpose to enrich the lives of veterans and seniors, as well as our revised strategic direction launched in 2023. 

A major milestone has been the implementation of a dedicated CRM and end-to-end fundraising processes. This will provide vital data insights to drive fundraising outcomes and inform decision-making. 

Working collaboratively, particularly with finance and marketing, has been critical and enabled us to begin to deliver integrated campaigns with a focus on creating exceptional donor experiences. Also, for the first time, four team members attended the FIA Annual Conference—marking an exciting step forward in our commitment to learning, professional development, and sector engagement. 

From securing new grants and partnerships, to growing supporter engagement, our collective efforts are directly contributing to improved services and greater outcomes for veterans, their families, and seniors across NSW & ACT. We're proud of the impact so far and even more excited for what’s ahead."

Nominated by: Nicole Shore, RSL LifeCare

Christine Robinson - WWF-Australia

"Christine Robinson is the embodiment of what makes a truly exceptional fundraiser. With 13 years of unwavering commitment to WWF, she brings a rare and powerful blend of relationship-building finesse and data-driven strategy. Christine has nurtured the Gifts in Wills program from its early days into a robust and sustainable income stream, and more recently, has taken the reins of the mid-value giving program with the same passion and precision.
 
Her leadership style is deeply nurturing—she’s her team’s biggest cheerleader and a cornerstone of positive culture. Christine is always the first to step up, whether it’s chairing a meeting, improving organisation-wide processes, or being the go-to expert for database support. Her generosity with her time and knowledge makes her a dream collaborator and an indispensable part of the team.
 
Christine’s work is not just about fundraising—it’s about building lasting impact through care, strategy, and community. She exemplifies the heart and soul of fundraising, and her contributions continue to inspire everyone around her. Recognising Christine on Fundraiser Appreciation Day is not just fitting—it’s essential."

Nominated by: Rachael Lance, WWF-Australia