Community
4 July, 2025
Foundation celebrates $500,000
LAST Friday’s Gala fundraising dinner for The Gillin Boys Foundation raised just over $16,000 and marked a major milestone in the foundation’s journey.
Last week’s tally brought to just over $500,000 the money raised over the last five years to support research into Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
The Gala, held at the Warrnambool Golf Club, brought together community members, researchers, supporters, and families united by a shared purpose - funding life-changing research and raising awareness for Duchenne.
The evening was expertly hosted by former Hawthorn and Carlton midfielder Daniel Harford.
Powerful and personal stories were shared by cancer survivors Jodie Fleming and Tim Van Ginneken, whose resilience and insight deeply moved the audience and reminded all in attendance of the importance of hope, determination and medical research.
One of the most touching moments of the night came when Courtney, a mother of a young boy living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, shared her family’s journey and the extraordinarily positive impact the Gillin Boys Foundation, and the Gillin family, has had on their lives.
Her emotional testimony highlighted the deep sense of community, hope, and tangible support that the foundation continues to provide to families facing the challenges of Duchenne.
The evening also featured a research update from Dr. Chantal Coles and Dr. Peter Houweling of the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI).
Their presentation outlined current advancements in Duchenne research, offering hope and insight into the road ahead.
In a proud moment for the Foundation, the Gillin Boys announced their latest donation; another generous $100,000 contribution to the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, continuing their commitment to advancing critical research into Duchenne.
“This milestone of over half a million dollars raised in five years is a testament to the power of community and the strength of the families driving this cause forward,” a spokesperson for the Gillin Boys Foundation said.
“We are incredibly grateful for every donor, supporter, and advocate who believes in a future without Duchenne.”
The Gillin Boys Foundation, established by the Gillin family, continues to be a beacon of hope for families impacted by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
The foundation remains committed to funding research that will improve lives and one day, find a cure.
“The more funds we raise, the quicker the cure,” Chris Gillin said.
