What’s happening?
Plumbers across Queensland, including Rockhampton, have raised $27,500 for Friends with Dignity, a charity that provides practical support to victim-survivors of domestic violence. The cheque was handed over at the International Men’s Day Plumbing and Gas Breakfast Trade Show held today at TAFE Queensland.
The Master Plumbers Association of Queensland named Friends with Dignity (FWD)as its 2025 charity partner earlier this year. Members raised the funds across various MPAQ events held during the last 12 months.
Why it matters
This funding goes straight into programs that help people rebuild safe and stable lives after domestic violence. The partnership also lifts awareness within the trade community, adding support to an issue that affects people across the country.
Local impact
Rockhampton plumbers took part in the statewide effort, using their events and platforms to help a charity that directly supports Queensland families. The donation will help at least ten families set up safe homes and start again.
By the numbers
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Plumbers raised $27500 which will fund programs that help families recover from domestic violence.
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The Sanctuary program will fully furnish homes for at least ten families, starting over in safe conditions.
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The Little Friends scholarships will support children as they heal, thrive and build confidence after trauma.
Zoom in
Friends with Dignity CEO and founder Manuela Whitford said the contribution will support two key programs. She said the funding will directly support the Sanctuary program which fully furnishes homes for individuals and families starting over. She added it will also fund Little Friends scholarships which help children heal, thrive and stand out for all the right reasons.
She said, “Every dollar helps turn a house into a home, empowering victim-survivors to reclaim independence, confidence, and a brighter future free from violence.”
MPAQ CEO Penny Cornah said the industry is proud of the effort shown by Queensland plumbers. She said, “We’re incredibly proud to see Queensland plumbers come together to make such a meaningful difference.” She added, “This partnership with Friends with Dignity goes beyond fundraising; it’s about showing that our industry stands united in supporting the safety and wellbeing of those affected by domestic violence.”
Zoom out
Friends with Dignity continues to widen its reach by linking with industries that want to support families facing domestic violence. The partnership with MPAQ shows how trade sectors can play a strong role in creating safe pathways for people who need to rebuild.
What to look for next?
More support will continue through MPAQ’s 2025 charity partnership events. The ongoing collaboration will help Friends with Dignity reach more families through its Sanctuary program and Little Friends scholarships.
