News

Can Assist is there when you need them most

By Zoe McMaugh

Oct 22, 2026

Deniliquin Can Assist volunteers Jenny Fellows, Colleen Henderson, Kellie Crossley, Bianca Armytage and Liz Whyke accept the 2026 Business of the Year award from Deniliquin Pastoral Times general manager Nigel Lutton. Photo by Rebecca Flisher

A cancer diagnosis can bring emotional and physical challenges, but for many rural families it also creates significant financial pressure.

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Deniliquin Can Assist works to ease that burden for locals by providing practical support, so patients can focus on their treatment rather than the cost of accessing it.

Established in 2017, the volunteer-run organisation ensures every dollar raised locally stays local.

Assistance is available to help cover expenses including travel and accommodation for treatment, medical and pharmaceutical costs, fuel, groceries and other essential household expenses.

The need for that support is significant in a regional area, where patients often travel long distances to access specialist care in centres such as Albury-Wodonga, Echuca, Bendigo and Melbourne.

Deniliquin Can Assist has previously highlighted that the costs associated with travelling for treatment can quickly add up and become a barrier to care for some patients and families.

The organisation works closely with local health professionals and referral partners to identify people who may require assistance, ensuring those facing cancer do not have to navigate the journey alone.

Its impact has been substantial.

The branch has supported hundreds of local patients and delivered more than $480,000 in assistance since its establishment, including more than $100,000 in support during the last financial year alone.

Funded entirely through community fundraising, donations and sponsorship, Deniliquin Can Assist remains a vital lifeline for local cancer patients, helping ensure financial hardship does not stand in the way of receiving treatment and care.

When the organisation was named Deniliquin Business Chamber’s Business of the Year in August, branch president Kellie Crossley praised the “strength and generosity of the Edward River community” is supporting the charity.

“We wouldn’t be here without incredible community support,” Mrs Crossley said.

“Everyone deserves to have equal access to cancer treatment, and our committee members enjoy what we do.”

• If you would like to support Deniliquin Can Assist, donate at https://canassist.org.au/ways-to-give/donate/ or register to host your own fundraiser at canassist.org.au/get-involved/fundraise/.

• If you or someone you know needs support from Deniliquin Can Assist, call 0455 097 676 or email deniliquin@canassist.org.au.