More than $19,000 was raised through this year’s Redland City Mayoral Chaplaincy Prayer Breakfast to support chaplaincy programs in local state schools.
Acting Mayor Julie Talty said the funding would be distributed evenly between chaplaincy programs that provided social, emotional and pastoral support for Redlands Coast students, families and school staff.
“This year’s community contribution of more than $19,000 brings the total amount raised at these breakfasts since 2013 to in excess of $280,000, which is an amazing effort,” Cr Talty said.
“This money benefits more than 15,000 local state school students each year through programs that include mentoring, role modelling and pastoral care aimed at enhancing wellbeing and improving educational outcomes.
“More than 210 people attended this week’s breakfast, showing the support our community has for giving back to our state schools and supporting chaplaincy services.”
The breakfast included the announcement of the 2026 Pastor Glen Gray Award, which recognises a local chaplain who has demonstrated significant support to students, parents and school staff.
The recipient was Emily Toms, school chaplain at Victoria Point and Scenic Shores state schools.
“Emily has volunteered for more than 25 years with children’s and youth ministries, camps and community programs and is a very deserving recipient of this year’s award,” Cr Talty said.
“The event committee was so impressed by her achievements and contribution that they invited her to be the guest speaker at this year’s breakfast.
“Emily’s address provided a wonderful insight into the dedication and compassion she brings to her role as a school chaplain.
“I would like to thank her and all Redlands Coast chaplains for the work they do to ensure our school communities are well supported.”
The Acting Mayor also thanked the event sponsors and supporters, which included:
- Albert Benfer with Redland Foundation (Diamond sponsor)
- Lions Club of Capalaba (Diamond sponsor)
- Good News Enterprises (Platinum sponsor)
- Renaissance Retirement Living (Gold sponsor)
- Certified Roofing (Silver sponsor)
- Alex Gow Funerals (Bronze sponsor)
- Darren Cole – Estate Agent (Bronze sponsor)
- Doris and Michael Choi OAM (Bronze sponsor)
- McGuires Alexandra Hills Hotel (event supporter)
- CPC Productions (event supporter)
Attendees at the breakfast included school chaplains, school and church leaders, government representatives, businesspeople and community members.
