Who we are
About the Black Cockatoo Foundation
The Black Cockatoo Foundation is a health promotion charity established in honour of Dr Mark Bestmann, a General Practitioner in Mareeba for many years. The Black Cockatoo Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of communities in the Mareeba Shire through accessible education, support and engagement initiatives. We organise events that raise awareness around critical health issues, foster community connection and empower individuals to take charge of their well-being. With a focus on mental health, community capacity development and health promotion, we aim to create a healthier more resilient community.
Join us in making a difference, together we can empower our community and ensure that every voice is heard and valued.
Our Initiatives
Mental Health Champions Network
In 2022, MCFHC established the Mareeba Mental Health Champions Network, through funding provided from the Queensland Mental Health Commission (QMHC). This volunteer group brings together representatives from diverse community sectors, including families, churches, sporting clubs, cultural groups, and workplaces, to increase mental health awareness and support. The Network aims to provide compassionate support to individuals and facilitate connections to professional services, while working to decrease stigma, particularly within marginalised and hard-to-reach populations.
Our program is grounded in international best practices in community capacity building, utilising a strengths-based approach. We have successfully engaged and trained approximately 68 individuals in accredited Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), 30 of whom are now active champions within the network. As the network has grown, so have opportunities for mentorship and peer support, exemplified by our buddy system and ongoing networking events.
Check out the Mental Health Champions Network brochure for more information.
Events
Our Activities
In addition to our own initiative, we are actively involved in many great local events, these include:
The Mareeba Rail Trail Park Run
A free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate
it’s up to you!
The Great Wheelbarrow Race
Trio team of Seth Walmsley, Emmanuel Gunton and Nathan Walmsley running 140km with a wheelbarrow to raise funds for “The Black Cockatoo Foundation”
Mareeba Field Days
Support our Cause
Get Involved
Our Supporters
