After 35 years, Chermside’s Prince Charles Hospital Foundation has decided to end its tradition of serving strawberry sundaes at the Ekka, to prioritise other fundraising initiatives.

This decision marks the end of a long-standing partnership that has raised millions for vital medical research and patient care initiatives. The foundation will now concentrate its efforts on new, sustainable programs.
For over thirty years, the foundation’s involvement with Ekka’s iconic dessert has been a major fundraising effort. The operation grew into a large-scale undertaking, requiring nine months of planning and the dedication of over 2,000 volunteers annually. These volunteers scooped more than 100,000 sundaes each year, contributing to a grand total of over three million sundaes served since the late 1980s.

The funds generated by the sundaes have supported numerous important causes. These include a world-first ICU redesign at the Prince Charles Hospital, the development of Charlie’s Village, a dedicated space for dementia patients, advancements in donor heart transportation, and the establishment of Queensland’s first child life therapist.
The foundation’s chief executive, Steve Francia, acknowledged the difficulty of discontinuing the program. He emphasised that the move will allow the organisation to concentrate on initiatives with the greatest potential to improve lives. He deeply appreciated the volunteers whose hard work made the program successful.
RNA chief executive Brendan Christou expressed sadness at the end of the partnership with the Prince Charles Hospital Foundation. He recognised the foundation’s long-standing contribution to the Ekka.
He also confirmed that the Strawberry Sundae will remain a fixture at the Ekka, with the RNA taking over its preparation and service. He assured Ekka visitors that the beloved treat will continue to be available. The RNA understands the foundation’s need to explore new fundraising avenues.
Published Date 31-Jan-2025