News
5 June, 2025
Pouring tea for a cause
Two heartfelt community events in Linville and Kilcoy have raised nearly $1,900 for the Cancer Council, showcasing the power of small-town solidarity in the fight against cancer.
On Thursday, May 24, the Linville Store & Café hosted its inaugural Biggest Afternoon Tea, drawing a sell-out crowd of locals and visitors.
Organised by newcomers Megan and Alan Waters, who recently took over the Linville Store and Café, the event featured homemade treats, a raffle with prizes donated by local businesses, and a warm atmosphere of connection. The event raised an impressive $1,596.25 for cancer research and support services — an extraordinary figure for a town with only 156 residents.
“We’ve only been here a short while, but we’ve already fallen in love with the heart and soul of Linville,” Megan said.
“We wanted to bring people together for a cause that touches so many lives. The response was overwhelming—we’re beyond grateful.”
Local businesses that contributed included Kilcoy Butchery, Linville Hotel, M&CO Hair and Beauty Toogoolawah, Fiery Fish Farm, and many others. Residents also donated baked goods, cash, and their time to help the day run smoothly.
The Waters’ vision is to make the event an annual tradition, growing bigger and brighter each year.
“This was just the beginning,” Alan said. “We’re already thinking about how we can make next year even more special.”
The following day, Able Retreats in Kilcoy hosted a special event for the Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea.
The fundraiser brought together clients, staff, families, and community guests, including visitors from Anglicare and residents from Aloaka Lodge, for a relaxed and meaningful morning in support of cancer research.
A tea tasting table offered a wide variety of blends — from fruity brews to calming herbal infusions — giving everyone a chance to try something new. The morning also featured a lively tea-themed quiz and a lucky door prize: a beautifully presented fruit hamper, which was won by Sue Taylor from Days for Girls.
The event raised over $265, with every dollar going directly to the Cancer Council to support vital cancer research and services.
“This was more than just a morning tea,” said Heather Andrews from Able Retreats.
“It was about community, connection, and doing something that matters. We’re so proud of how everyone came together.”
Both events highlight the importance of community involvement in supporting cancer research and services. The funds raised will contribute to the Cancer Council’s efforts in providing support to those affected by cancer and funding life-saving research.
