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Recognition can be a strange thing when the work you are being recognised for was never undertaken for recognition at all. When I learned that I had been named a 2026 Semi Finalist in the Awards Australia Foundation Health and Wellbeing Award, part of the 7NEWS Community Achievement Awards NSW/ACT, my first thought was not of myself. It was of Dainere’s Rainbow.

My name may be the one attached to this recognition, but the work it represents has never been mine alone. It belongs to Dainere’s Rainbow, to the purpose that has guided us, to the people who have stood beside us, and above all, to the enduring legacy of my beautiful sister Dainere.

Dainere’s Rainbow was born from profound loss, but it was never intended to remain defined by loss. For twelve years, our purpose has been to transform remembrance into action and to ensure that children and families affected by childhood brain cancer are seen, heard and supported. Through awareness, education, advocacy, family support and fundraising for research, we have sought to create something enduring from a life that was taken far too soon.

Twelve years is a significant passage of time, yet for us it has never been measured simply by the years that have passed. It is measured in the lives we have been privileged to touch, the families we have stood beside, the conversations we have helped bring into the light, the awareness we have created, the research we have supported and the progress we have advocated for. It is measured in every opportunity to make childhood brain cancer better understood and every moment in which we can offer a family a little more support, hope or reassurance during circumstances no family should ever have to endure.

That work has taken us into places and conversations I could never have imagined when Dainere died. It has meant advocating for better understanding of childhood brain cancer, supporting families through experiences that can alter every part of their lives, championing paediatric palliative care, and helping create greater awareness of the needs of children whose lives are shaped by serious illness. It has also meant standing alongside researchers and supporting the search for better treatments and, ultimately, better futures for children.

There is something particularly meaningful about the Health and Wellbeing Award because its description speaks not simply of achievement, but of service, compassion, hope and the determination to improve the lives of others. Those are values that sit at the very heart of Dainere’s Rainbow. We have never believed that meaningful change is created through one moment or one person. It is built through persistence, through relationships, through advocacy and through the willingness to continue when the work is difficult.

To be named a Semi Finalist is therefore an honour I receive with genuine humility. I am grateful that the work of Dainere’s Rainbow has been seen and recognised in this way, but I also recognise the responsibility that comes with such acknowledgement. Recognition should never become the destination. It should strengthen our resolve to keep moving forward.

There is still so much to do. Children with brain cancer deserve more than statistics. They deserve research that keeps searching for answers, healthcare that understands the complexity of their lives, families who are supported rather than left to navigate impossible circumstances alone, and a community prepared to stand beside them. They deserve to be recognised first and foremost for who they are, children with futures, dreams, personalities and lives of immeasurable worth.

That is why I carry this recognition with gratitude, but also with perspective. My name may appear on the nomination, yet everything it represents reaches far beyond me. It belongs to Dainere’s Rainbow and to the purpose that has carried us forward for twelve years.

Dainere’s life was far too short to contain all she had to give. What remains is not simply the memory of a beautiful girl, but a responsibility to ensure that her life continues to make a difference. If this recognition brings greater attention to that work, then I will regard it not as an accolade for myself, but as another opportunity to speak for the children and families at the heart of Dainere’s Rainbow.

After twelve years, our purpose remains unchanged. We will continue to advocate, to educate, to support, to raise awareness, to contribute to research and to stand beside families navigating childhood brain cancer. Dainere’s life may have been heartbreakingly short, but the love she inspired has become a force for something much larger than grief. It has become a commitment to ensuring that her legacy continues to give hope, create change and make a difference where it matters most.

At this point I can honestly say that there is a strange impression which traverses through my bones of simply being in Sydney every August; this peculiar sensation is not a negative one, it is rather one where I have a sense of the cemented permanence in the continuation of my little sister’s legacy. Having competed in the infamous City2Surf since 2013, the time in Sydney during the eighth month of the year consistently since is one where regardless of the result achieved in the run itself, I feel as though I have accomplished something massive.

Funny indeed it is that something so minimal can create such monumental waves, both for awareness and fundraising for Dainere, as well as the extensive growth within myself. Last year, I was ecstatic to share the exhilarating news of my personal best time being achieved in the run, however, this year is not that write up and to be completely honest, it took me some time to realise that this is okay.

In previous years, the run itself hasn’t always gone to plan, however, after such a thrilling year with both a personal best time as well as a substantial amount raised, this year was admittedly hard to swallow,  at least, the race result was. Despite catching a respiratory illness only a fortnight prior to the race day and having my asthmatic lungs not being able to recover in time nor holding out for the strenuous race, I had a minor breakdown after the run when being reunited with my supporting and loving parents and fiancé.

Despite being five minutes slower than 2025 and my City2Surf personal best, the sadness was not at this, rather it was due to the unusual idea I’d concocted in my head that if I didn’t achieve a time I deemed to be fast enough, I was letting down all those who had generously donated. And so there I stood, shattered, surrounded by those I love mere minutes after completing the 14km.

“You have to go through a storm to get to a rainbow” – Dainere’s wise words well beyond her years inked on to my arm in memoriam and to serve as a reminder. As I gaze down at these tattooed words, even now as I write my tardy City2Surf reflection, I am empowered to always make my way through any storms which arise, because once I do, I will be greeted with a well-deserved rainbow.

As far as my race result, I know now that it is okay to not run under a time standard that I set myself – bad days happen; the important part is to strive forwards and keep working hard at my training. Similarly, I realise now that the awareness raising and fund raising is not intrinsically linked to my race result, it is about what entering the race year after year stands for.

Competing in the City2Surf is just one of the pathways I run (pun most certainly intended here) to continue Dainere’s legacy, and I don’t intend for this to change any time soon. Without further ado and as always each and every year, a sincere and heartfelt thank you to each and every single person who took the time to make a donation; in doing so, you are a part of Dainere’s legacy, and to quote my inspirational little sister one last time in this post-race reflection for 2026, “My little voice could only make a small difference, but together many voices could create change”.

Be sure to keep a very close eye on all things Dainere’s Rainbow, I can guarantee you that the family and I have a lot planned and ready to put into motion.

Some stories ask us to revisit moments that changed our lives forever. They invite us to return to memories that remain as vivid today as they were when they first unfolded, and to search for words worthy of those we love most, knowing that language can never truly contain a life so extraordinary.

Yet some stories deserve to be told, because within them lies the power to inspire understanding, awaken compassion and, perhaps, change another person’s future.

I remain profoundly indebted to Bernie and everyone at Canberra Daily for so thoughtfully and compassionately sharing Dainere’s story. To witness her legacy entrusted to someone who approached it with such dignity, sensitivity and authenticity is a gift that I will always hold close.

What Bernie shared was never simply the story of a family forever changed by childhood brain cancer. She revealed the heart of an extraordinary little girl whose compassion was greater than her own suffering. Dainere believed that no child should have to endure what she did, and from that belief grew a legacy that continues to guide every step I take through Dainere’s Rainbow.

As I prepare to stand on the City2Surf start line once again, I am reminded that it has never simply been a run.

It is a promise.

A promise inspired by my little sister, who encouraged me to use the one gift I had, running, to make a difference for others. Every kilometre is travelled in honour of Dainere, for the children we have lost, for those courageously facing childhood brain cancer today, and for every child and family whose journey is yet to begin.

Bernie understood that this journey is not measured in kilometres alone. It is measured in hope. In remembrance. In compassion. In an unwavering belief that even the deepest heartbreak can become a force for good when it is dedicated to serving others.

Thoughtful journalism possesses a remarkable ability to do far more than report events. At its very best, it preserves legacies, gives voice to those who can no longer speak for themselves, and invites an entire community to walk alongside a cause that deserves to be seen, understood and embraced.

That is precisely what Bernie has given to Dainere.

If her story encourages even one conversation about childhood brain cancer, inspires one act of kindness, strengthens support for research, or reminds one family that they are not walking this path alone, then her voice continues to fulfil the purpose she so courageously envisioned.

There are acts of generosity whose influence extends far beyond the moment in which they are offered. They become woven into the lives of others, quietly shaping futures they may never witness.

Bernie and everyone at Canberra Daily have given Dainere’s legacy that extraordinary gift.

As I once again make my way from the City2Surf start line to the finish, I will carry with me not only the promise I made to my remarkable little sister, but also a heart filled with profound gratitude that her voice continues to reach new hearts, inspire compassion, and remind us all that hope is always worth running towards.

There are moments when imagination, generosity and purpose converge so seamlessly that an afternoon becomes something altogether extraordinary. The Book Character High Tea 2026 was one of those rare occasions.

Held within the historic surrounds of Old Parliament House, the pages of beloved books came vividly to life as guests arrived in imaginative literary costume, united by a shared love of storytelling and a profound commitment to supporting children diagnosed with brain cancer.

The afternoon was filled with warmth, laughter and connection, reflecting the extraordinary spirit of the community gathered in support of Dainere’s Rainbow.

Together, an incredible $5,295.80 was raised.

Every dollar will support vital childhood brain cancer research and continue Dainere’s vision of creating a brighter future for children and families facing this devastating disease.

Guiding the afternoon was our Master of Ceremonies and Dainere’s Rainbow Ambassador, Michael Bower, whose warmth and professionalism created an uplifting and engaging atmosphere throughout the event.

A defining highlight of the afternoon was the extraordinary entertainment presented by Kirsty and her exceptional team of young performers from Budding Entertainment. Under the creative direction of Kirsty Budding, the ensemble presented four original theatrical skits inspired by cherished literary classics: Alice in Wonderland, Harry Potter, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and The Wizard of Oz. Each piece was reimagined with creativity, sophistication and theatrical flair, transforming familiar stories into dynamic, original performances. The young performers brought each production to life with remarkable confidence, expressive storytelling and a natural command of the stage, captivating guests from beginning to end. Their performances radiated joy, imagination and professionalism, leaving a lasting impression and standing as one of the most celebrated highlights of the afternoon.

Adding elegance to the afternoon was DJ “Hot Keys” Alex Carder, whose beautiful piano performances created a refined and welcoming atmosphere. Guests were also delighted by his ability to take musical requests and perform them flawlessly by ear in return for donations to Dainere’s Rainbow, a generous and memorable contribution that became one of the highlights of the day.

Guests were warmly welcomed by Deirdre Rose of Graceful Rose Parties, who appeared as Scarlett O’Hara, adding theatrical charm to the occasion and delighting guests with thoughtful surprises throughout the afternoon.

Our sincere thanks go to Corinne Read of Red Fox Photography, who captured the spirit, joy and elegance of the event with remarkable artistry. Photographs will be shared once available.

We also extend our appreciation to Juliet, Belle and the Functions and Catering Team at Old Parliament House, whose professionalism ensured the afternoon unfolded seamlessly.

Special acknowledgement is given to the talented Chef, whose themed desserts were a true highlight. The dessert created in honour of Dainere was particularly meaningful, reflecting her imagination, spirit and enduring legacy with exceptional artistry.

We are deeply grateful to our community partners and supporters:

Ampol Mitchell

Cockington Green Gardens

Fantastic Furniture Gungahlin

Gourmet By Design 

Jacinta Froud – Author

Pulp Book Café

Red Fox Photography

Along with all those who generously donated silent auction items, raffle prizes and lucky door gifts. Your contributions helped transform a beautiful gathering into meaningful impact.

Most importantly, with immense, humble and heartfelt gratiude to every guest who attended. Your generosity, enthusiasm and spirit created an atmosphere of genuine connection and purpose. Together, you helped turn an afternoon into something far greater than an event.

Each person who attended became part of something far greater than a celebration.

Together, we honoured Dainere’s legacy.

Together, we strengthened hope.

Together, we wrote another chapter for children impacted by brain cancer.

We look forward to sharing event photographs in the coming weeks.

Save the Date Sunday, 19 June 2027 – Keep Watching In Great Anticipation For An Announcement Soon.

With profound humility, deep gratitude and a deeply honoured heart, I am sincerely humbled to share this news.

On 3 June 2026, I received a telephone call advising that I had been selected as one of only five Finalists in the NSW Government Ministry of Health Achievement in Health Award category of the 2026 7NEWS Young Achiever Awards NSW/ACT.

I remain sincerely and deeply grateful for the kindness in nominating me and I receive this recognition with genuine humility and appreciation. I hold this honour not in any personal sense of achievement, but in recognition of the children, families and experiences that have shaped this journey and continue to give it meaning and purpose.

This recognition carries profound significance as it reflects the ongoing and urgent need for elevated awareness, advocacy, education, support and fundraising in relation to childhood brain cancer, and the far-reaching impact it has on children, young people and their families. It also acknowledges the deeply human and often unseen dimensions of this experience, particularly within paediatric palliative care and the lives of siblings, where brothers and sisters carry extraordinary emotional weight as they navigate love, fear, grief, connection and resilience in ways that are too often unspoken and insufficiently supported.

Through my work with Dainere’s Rainbow, my commitment has always been anchored in ensuring that childhood brain cancer is never diminished in visibility or urgency. It is a lifelong dedication shaped by selflessness, passion and responsibility, focused on elevating awareness, strengthening understanding, supporting families, and contributing to meaningful and sustained change. It is also a commitment to ensuring that siblings are not overlooked, but are recognised, supported and held within the wider circle of care that surrounds each family.

This work is profoundly personal. It is carried in memory, in love and in a responsibility that has never lessened with time. It is guided by the unwavering belief that every child facing childhood brain cancer deserves dignity, hope and the highest standard of care, and that every family deserves to be met with understanding, compassion and support across every dimension of their journey.

In many ways, this recognition reflects the enduring legacy of Dainere, her extraordinary empathy for others and her quiet but powerful desire to make a difference in the lives of children she would never meet. Dainere’s Rainbow continues in her honour, and every step forward is taken with her presence deeply woven into its purpose and direction.

To be named as one of only five Finalists across New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory is something I accept with deep humility and respect. It strengthens my resolve to continue this work with even greater depth, reach and determination, and to continue striving for lasting change in awareness, support, education and research for childhood brain cancer.

I am sincerely and profoundly grateful for this recognition, and I remain committed, for my lifetime and beyond, to continuing this work with unwavering dedication.

We are profoundly honoured to share that Jarrett has been selected as a Semi Finalist in the 2026 Young Achiever Awards in the NSW Government Ministry of Health Achievement in Health Award category.

Jarrett was nominated and selected in recognition of his extraordinary compassion, advocacy and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of children and families impacted by childhood brain cancer and paediatric palliative care.

The Ministry of Health Achievement in Health Award celebrates young individuals whose service, leadership and commitment make a significant and lasting contribution to positive health and wellbeing outcomes within the community. It acknowledges those who selflessly provide hope, encouragement, support and advocacy, while helping to strengthen vital networks of care for individuals and families facing immense challenges.

This very special acknowledgement is a reflection of Jarrett’s tireless dedication, integrity and genuine desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others through Dainere’s Rainbow and beyond. His compassionate commitment to raising awareness, supporting families and advocating for children diagnosed with brain cancer continues to inspire many throughout the community.

We are incredibly proud of Jarrett and this well deserved recognition of his outstanding contribution and service to others.

Finalists will be announced on 3 June 2026.

It is with profound joy and heartfelt admiration that we announce that Michael Bower has graciously accepted the distinguished role of Ambassador for our charity. Michael is a man of extraordinary character, whose integrity, warmth, and generosity of spirit are matched only by his unwavering commitment to uplifting others.

Michael Bower has been a Marriage and Funeral Celebrant for over 10 years, and has been a professional MC for over 40 years.

He loves what he does, whether meeting a newly engaged couple to help them make their Wedding Day exactly what they want, helping a family plan a Celebration of Life or working as MC at an Awards Night, Charity Fundraiser or a Wedding Reception, for Michael it never feels like work!

His presence in the Canberra community is both respected and cherished, and his influence reaches far and wide. In taking on this role, Michael lends not only his voice but his remarkable insight, thoughtful guidance, and an inspiring dedication to the children and families we serve. His involvement promises to illuminate our mission with renewed vitality, drawing attention to the vital work of Dainere’s Rainbow and inspiring all who encounter it.

“Every day I get to help people in very significant times in their lives, and I am honoured to be the Ambassador for Dainere’s Rainbow’, helping such an inspiring, wonderful and much needed cause – childhood brain cancer”.

We are all at Dainere’s Rainbow deeply honoured to welcome Michael into this pivotal role, knowing that his exceptional presence and tireless dedication will amplify our efforts and embody the very essence of hope, compassion, and resilience that Dainere herself so powerfully championed.

Dainere’s Rainbow founder, Yvonne Anthoney, was honoured to be invited as a keynote speaker at Shape the Future of Paediatric Palliative Care in the ACT, a significant community round table hosted by Palliative Care ACT, bringing together families, clinicians, health professionals, advocates, and the wider community.

The event created an important and deeply meaningful conversation about the urgent need to strengthen paediatric palliative care services in the ACT and surrounding region.

For Yvonne and the Anthoney family, this issue is profoundly personal.

When their youngest daughter and sister, Dainere, was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour in 2009, the family’s world changed forever. At the time, there was no dedicated specialised paediatric palliative care service in the ACT. Yvonne relocated to Sydney for many months to remain by Dainere’s side during treatment, while the family was forced to live across two cities.

During her keynote presentation, Yvonne shared the realities families face when specialised paediatric palliative care close to home is not available.

“To have to leave your home when your child is dying is something no family should ever, ever be asked to do,” Yvonne shared.

“The financial strain was significant, but what stays with me most is the complete restructuring of what it means to be a family under extreme pressure.”

Yvonne also reflected on Dainere’s decision to die at home in Canberra at the age of 15 in 2013, a choice that mattered deeply to both Dainere and their family.

“When Dainere chose to die at home in Canberra, that choice mattered deeply,” Yvonne said.

“Not divided, not stretched across distance, but together.”

The keynote presentation highlighted not only the gaps that existed at the time, but also the importance of coordinated, compassionate, specialised care for children and families living with life limiting illness.

While acknowledging the kindness and dedication shown by healthcare professionals who supported Dainere and the family, Yvonne spoke about the need for specialised paediatric expertise and stronger systems of care from diagnosis onward.

“Kindness alone is not enough without specialised paediatric expertise.”

The event also recognised the powerful role lived experience can play in influencing meaningful change.

Through Dainere’s Rainbow, the Anthoney family has tirelessly advocated for children with brain cancer, while also contributing to important conversations surrounding paediatric palliative care. Their advocacy and collaboration have contributed to progress within the ACT, including the establishment of a specialised paediatric palliative care nurse role and ongoing co design work to help improve resources, support, and care pathways for families.

Yvonne spoke passionately about the importance of ensuring families are never left navigating fragmented systems during the most difficult time in their lives.

“Everything we do is driven by the same purpose. To ensure that no family is left navigating a fragmented system at the most critical time in their lives.”

“Every child deserves care that is compassionate, coordinated, specialised, and close to home.”

Dainere’s Rainbow remains humbled, honoured, and proud to have been part of this important and impactful event and conversation.

We sincerely thank Palliative Care ACT for bringing together families, clinicians, advocates, and the community to help shape the future of paediatric palliative care in the ACT.

As shared by Palliative Care ACT following the event:

“Thank you to everyone who attended today’s community round table. Some big discussions were started in that room and we are so grateful for your contribution to improving our understanding of the demand for more paediatric palliative care in the ACT.”

Dainere’s Rainbow will continue advocating for a future where every child and every family have access to the specialised care, compassion, dignity, and support they deserve.

At the conclusion of the Cross Country Carnival, Burgmann Anglican School’s Year 12 cohort once again gathered for the annual Dainere’s Rainbow Run, a deeply meaningful tradition held in honour of former Burgmann student, Dainere Anthoney, who died from childhood brain cancer in 2013 at just 15 years of age.

Far more than a ceremonial event, the Dainere’s Rainbow Run has become a powerful expression of compassion, unity, service, and enduring remembrance within the Burgmann community. In the weeks leading up to the event, students worked collectively to raise both vital awareness and funds for childhood brain cancer research, with their commitment continuing throughout the term as they further champion the mission and message of Dainere’s Rainbow across the Senior School community and beyond.

Addressing the cohort, Yvonne Anthoney shared the extraordinary story of Dainere’s life, courage, and legacy, a legacy defined not by illness, but by remarkable strength, boundless compassion, creativity, and an unwavering determination to bring hope to others. Her reflections served as a profound reminder that Dainere’s spirit continues to illuminate pathways for children and families facing the unimaginable reality of childhood brain cancer.

“Right here, in the final year of her life, Dainere was not a bystander. In her electric wheelchair, enduring unimaginable pain, she came here to be part of the community she loved so deeply.”

As students stood upon the very oval Dainere once crossed with extraordinary courage and resilience, they were reminded that her presence remains woven into the heart of Burgmann itself. Her life continues to speak powerfully to future generations about kindness, perseverance, empathy, and the profound importance of living with purpose.

The event also served as a poignant call to awareness. Childhood brain cancer remains one of the most devastating and underfunded diseases affecting young Australians, and the need for advocacy, research, and meaningful action has never been more urgent. Through the leadership and compassion of the Year 12 cohort, every conversation sparked, every step taken, and every dollar raised contributes directly towards life changing and life saving research.

“Breakthroughs are not made in isolation. They are made possible by communities like this, by students, staff, families, and every person willing to stand beside children diagnosed with brain cancer.”

Words can scarcely convey the depth of gratitude felt for the extraordinary kindness, generosity, and unwavering support continually shown by the Burgmann Anglican School community. Year after year, the Dainere’s Rainbow Run stands as a shining testament to what can be achieved when hearts, purpose, and community unite in pursuit of something far greater than themselves, bringing hope, awareness, and the possibility of a brighter future to children diagnosed with brain cancer across Canberra and throughout Australia.