General News
19 May, 2026
Camp Quality weekend offers hope, friendship and fun
CHILDEN impacted by cancer from across Victoria came to Halls Gap recently for a much needed break with their families.
Children’s cancer charity Camp Quality hosted the camp with participants and their families embracing the range of activities on offer.
They visited Halls Gap Zoo, made gifts for Mothers Day and enjoyed great local food.
Camp leader Mahney Lowe said it was a wonderful experience for the children involved.
“The sun was shining brightly, smiles were lighting up the faces of parents and kids alike. The weekend was filled with priceless moments where lifelong memories were made, new friendships forged and the volunteers were reminded why being part of such an inspiring organisation means so much,” she said.
Kat Chersicla was diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2024, just four months after she moved to Australia from the United States with her husband, Rick, and three-year-old son, Logan.
She was in active treatment for a year, finishing in June 2025.
“This was our first weekend away with Camp Quality and it was amazing. My husband was out of town for work, so I was a little hesitant. Being Mother’s Day, I thought it might be a nice thing to do, just me and Logan. It was just so easy to show up with everything they had preplanned,” said Kat.
Kat and Logan met other families who have had similar experiences to theirs.
“Logan has never met another kid whose parent has had cancer and it was really good for him.”
Throughout the weekend, there were many activities for families to enjoy, including a flower crown workshop for Mother’s Day.
“During the activity, I got a bit choked up because my hands have some neuropathy post chemo, and trying to get the flowers on the crown I was feeling it and getting frustrated. One of the volunteers swooped in right at the right time and helped me finish it. I was so grateful to her in that moment.”
Winnie He attended Camp with her two daughters Rachel and Phoenix.
“With our experience, Camp Quality has been such a fantastic organisation. They gave us the chance to get away from home and have family time. It's like having someone reaching out to hug our family,” said Winnie.
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