Philanthropy
Walk a While
Berni is passionately committed to ensuring that Australia's First Nations people have equal access to healthcare. With experience a pharmacist in both the UK and Australia, her perspective evolved after visiting indigenous communities west of Alice Springs, she observed the persistent challenges they encounter. To deepen her understanding, she completed a Graduate Certificate in Aboriginal Studies, which allowed her to explore the historical context of these communities. Berni has actively participated in fundraising efforts for Walk Awhile (www.walkawhile.org.au), a foundation founded in 2010 that supports indigenous people through creative and visual arts. The funds raised are directed towards local indigenous projects, equipping youth with the skills and resources to share their stories and pursue meaningful career opportunities.
Memory Mountain
Memory Mountain is a significant project that Berni and her family have been deeply involved in since its beginning.
The Elders in Haast Bluff have expressed their gratitude to the family for their crucial role in establishing the company and its business. The Elders' vision includes a 22-foot cross on the mountain and tourist infrastructure to ensure safe and easy access to this site in the geographical center of Australia. For more details visit (www.memorymountain.com.au).
She would be delighted to be your tour guide, helping you connect with the local people who can share their incredible stories and culture while enjoying meals together.
Adventure All Stars
Berni has raised over 10K personally in 2022 through Walkawhile's collaboration with Adventure All stars on Channel 7plus.
​
She continues to fundraise for the construction of essential facilities at the site for visitors for shade and facilities (water and toilet) through another episode of All Stars featuring next year.
​
She can be seen on Season 3 Episode 6 filmed on the Sapphire Coast ​
Local community
Berni's family has always been focussed on "others" and has supported many local charities. Her family has been involved in helping in the setting up and contributing a number of significant projects on the Sunshine Coast. One of these included Skate Aid (Australia) which helped school children not drop out of school but drop in to a skate program to incentivise school attendance and completion of work. For further information see https://www.skate-aid.org.au/?
​
​
One Wave
Berni's family continued the work of One Wave on the Sunshine Coast for a season 2019 -2020 after her boys lost their dad to cancer. He helped in the initial early days of the charity set up. Her sons were keen to support his work. One Wave reaches many people and raises awareness of mental health and suicide risk in young adults meeting at beaches or visiting schools to break the stigma on mental health. On one gathering Berni hosted over 100 people to support each other over the loss of a school mate. One Wave has grown to be an international charity raising awareness through "One Wave is all it takes" and the guys running it are doing an amazing job. For further information: