The power of the Orbost community was on full display in Melbourne recently as representatives from the Orbost Poker Run delivered a staggering $38,000 donation to Ronald McDonald House (RMH) Monash.
On April 17, committee members Kev, Connie, Kiely, and Paulene travelled to the city to present the cheque to RMH representatives Nat and Alera.
The funds, raised through the 2026 Orbost Poker Run, will go directly toward supporting families of critically ill children who must travel for life-saving medical treatment.
The delegation was invited to spend time in the “Orbost Room”, a space at the house dedicated to the regional community where they witnessed firsthand the impact of their fundraising efforts.
While at the house, the group met a young boy named Leroy, from Inverloch, and his grandmother.
Leroy lives with a serious, incurable immune system condition that requires intensive ongoing management.
His grandmother shared the harrowing reality of his journey, including the fact that Leroy has had to be resuscitated four times and has previously been in a coma.
For Leroy, simple childhood milestones carry extreme risks; a wobbly tooth or a minor paper cut can become life-threatening if they lead to infection.
Because of the support provided by Ronald McDonald House, Leroy and his grandmother were able to stay at the facility for three weeks free of charge, with all food and accommodation supplied.
“He is a very bubbly, happy, and positive kid who made the four of us leave with a big smile on our faces,” a Poker Run spokesperson said.
“Knowing that what we do has taken a lot of stress and financial worries off families that are going through a hard time makes it all worth it.”
The visit also highlighted other local connections within the facility.
The group discovered a plaque for the Robinson family, which commemorates the birth of twins Jasper and Harlow and recognises the family’s ongoing support of the house’s pantry room.
The day concluded with a lighthearted moment as Kev paid a visit to the iconic Ronald McDonald statue in the courtyard before the team headed back to East Gippsland.
The Orbost Poker Run committee extended their deepest thanks to the sponsors, donors and participants whose support made the $38,000 donation possible.
