Annual prayer breakfast raises about $20,000 for school chaplaincy

The 21st annual Redland City Mayoral Prayer Breakfast raised almost $20,000 for state school chaplaincy programs on Redlands Coast.

Mayor Karen Williams said the fundraising from today’s event was an excellent result given the rising cost of living pressures experienced by many in the community.

“We know a lot of people are doing it tough, including our young people, so it is vital we continue to support programs such as school chaplaincy,” she said.

“Our chaplains provide vital wellbeing support not only to students, but also to local families and school staff across Redlands Coast.

“This year’s funding will add to the more than $195,000 raised at these breakfast events since 2014, directly benefitting about 15,000 students each year.”

Cr Williams said today’s event included the announcement of the recipient of the fourth Pastor Glen Gray Award, which recognises an outstanding school chaplain.

“This year’s recipient is Pastor Neale Collier, who has been chaplain at Cleveland District State High School since 2002,” she said.

“Neale supports students through a variety of ways and mentors them as they organise activities for fellow students or fundraise for those less fortunate.

“He also works with others to provide practical support such as hampers, furniture and educational resources.

“Neale has also encouraged the school community to make a difference globally by installing more than 60 libraries in struggling schools throughout Vanuatu.

“Neale is a very worthy recipient of the Pastor Glen Gray Award and I commend him for the work he has done to support his school and the wider community.”

Cr Williams also thanked all event sponsors and supporters including:

Diamond sponsor – Vision Christian Media Gold sponsor – Renaissance Retirement Living Silver sponsor – Redland Investment Corporation Bronze sponsors – Alex Gow Funerals; Christian Business Network; Cole and Yarrow real estate; The Cage Youth Foundation; and Villawood Properties Event supporters – Alexandra Hills Hotel, CPC Production Services, and Sunnydale Green Solutions Major donors – Albert Benfer, and Peter and Marlene Sprague

Attendees at this year’s breakfast at the Alexandra Hills Hotel included school chaplains, school and church leaders, government representatives, businesspeople and community members.

Guest speaker was Jason Fiddes, who owns a life coaching business that specialises in wellbeing.

Photos from the event can be viewed on the Redland City Council website.