Nikki Bolger (right) received Life Membership of Can Assist. Nikki is pictured with Maryanne Fitzgerald, Monica O’Connor and June Howe.
The Harden-Murrumburrah branch of Can Assist marked a significant milestone on Saturday, July 18, 2026, with a heartfelt 25th anniversary luncheon at the Harden Country Club. The event brought together more than 80 guests from across the state to celebrate a quarter-century of dedicated service to local families affected by cancer.
Can Assist, formerly known as the Cancer Patients Assistance Society of NSW, is a grassroots not-for-profit charity established in 1955. It was founded to provide financial assistance, accommodation, and practical support to people in rural and regional NSW battling cancer.
Two remarkable women shaped its early history: Mona Ham, a trained nurse whose
experiences with her radiotherapist husband Dr. Harold Ham inspired practical acts of care, and Jean Colvin, who drew from her own cancer journey, travelling from Orange to Sydney. Their
vision led to the first country branches in 1956 and the establishment of the Jean Colvin Cancer Hostel in Darling Point in 1961.
Locally, the Young/Boorowa/Harden branch formed in 1988. In 2000, driven by community leaders including Brian Dunn, Nikki Bolger, Chris Manchester, and Monica O’Connor, the Harden-Murrumburrah branch broke away to better serve its area. Monica O’Connor’s personal
experience caring for her husband Justin during his cancer battle underscored the need for stronger local support, spurring “Team O’Connor” to organise multiple black-tie balls that provided crucial financial backing.
The branch officially opened in 2001 with an inaugural committee including President Lesley Golding, Vice President Judy Dunn, Secretary Monica O’Connor, Treasurer Maryanne Fitzgerald, Medical Advisor Nikki Bolger, and others. Over the past 25 years, it has hosted a wide array of events — from golf and bowls days, trivia nights, and bike rides to star-studded occasions like Dancing with the Locals, an evening with Gail O’Brien, and even an Elvis Night. A notable bequest from Patricia and Graham Kemp helped establish the “Corridor of Life” parkland in Murrumburrah, creating a welcoming rest area by the creek.
The celebratory luncheon featured delicious catering from the Country Club, stunning floral arrangements by The Ohana Collection, and a beautiful birthday cake by Tegan Drew. Entertainment was provided by Julie and Peter O’Connor, setting a warm and engaging tone for the afternoon.
Attendees heard poignant reflections and insights from key speakers, including Tim O’Connor, Steph Cooke MP, Richard Moffat from Lilier Lodge in Wagga Wagga, and Monica O’Connor. The addresses evoked both laughter and tears, highlighting the branch’s journey and its ongoing impact.A special highlight was the awarding of Life Membership to Nikki Bolger. As one of the founding members and long-serving voluntary medical adviser, Bolger has been instrumental in the branch’s success.
In a formal letter presented to Nikki, branch leaders Carol Barker (President), Bev Stevenson (Secretary), and Maryanne Fitzgerald (Treasurer) praised her extraordinary dedication:
“This recognition is a fitting tribute to your extraordinary dedication, commitment and service over the past 25 years. As one of our founding members, your vision and willingness to help establish our branch laid the foundation for an organisation that has supported countless local people and families affected by cancer.”
The letter continued: “Your contribution extends far beyond your role as voluntary medical adviser. For a quarter of a century, you have generously shared your professional knowledge, wisdom and time, always placing the needs of our cancer patients first. Your compassion, kindness and genuine care have provided comfort and reassurance to so many… While your professionalism has been invaluable, it is your warmth, your wonderful sense of humour and your ability to put people at ease that have made you so special.”
Nikki’s humility, grace, and unwavering support have inspired the entire branch and community.
The afternoon also saw the draw of the branch’s 25th birthday raffle, which featured seven prizes valued at over $15,000. Winners included:
1st prize: Dianne Peisley (drawn by Michelle Howe)
2nd prize: Melissa Pinney (drawn by Allison Manwaring)
3rd prize: Lee Murray (drawn by Anne Spencer)
4th prize: Lorraine Madden (drawn by Rod Peisley)
5th prize: Patricia Johnston (drawn by Marcie Quinn)
6th prize: Ged Davis (drawn by Brian Ingram)
7th prize: Edna Baker (drawn by Judy Dunn)
Impressive growth underscores the branch’s impact. Annual assistance to local cancer patients rose from $1,685 in 2001 to $63,025 in 2025, while income increased from $21,830 to $112,375 over the same period. Today, Can Assist operates 55 branches statewide with over 3,000 volunteers.
Organisers expressed deep gratitude to raffle donors from Harden, Jugiong, Binalong, Young, and Cootamundra, as well as all attendees, volunteers, and supporters who made the day a resounding success.
In her address, Maryanne Fitzgerald reflected on the branch’s achievements: “I am so proud of everything our branch has achieved in the past 25 years and what we continue to offer to our community.” She highlighted the community’s generosity and the volunteers’ dedication, noting the branch’s ethos encapsulated in the quote “You will never walk alone” — a fitting motto for their unwavering support.
“Can Assist Harden has been a beacon of hope for our community,” a committee representative noted. “From providing a ‘home away from home’ at Lilier Lodge to direct financial aid, we’ve helped ensure that no one in our region walks alone through cancer treatment.”
The branch continues its vital work through events like the annual Can Assist Weekend in March and ongoing fundraising. For more information or to support Can Assist Harden-Murrumburrah, visit their Facebook page or contact them via email at harden@canassist.org.au.
In an era where rural healthcare access remains challenging, Can Assist’s 25 years of service stand as a powerful testament to the strength of community, compassion, and local commitment. Here’s to many more years of making a difference.
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