Western Cancer Centre Foundation Limited
The Western Cancer Centre Foundation Limited (WCCF) is a nonprofit organisation based in Western New South Wales, Australia, focused on improving cancer care and supporting patients and their families. Established in response to community advocacy, the foundation plays a pivotal role in enhancing access to cancer treatment services across rural and regional NSW.

History

The WCCF emerged from a grassroots campaign initiated by community activists, including Lyn Smith and Frances Peters-Little. In 2016, a petition advocating for a dedicated cancer centre in Dubbo as part of the Dubbo Hospital redevelopment garnered over 46,000 signatures[4]. This effort led to federal and state government funding for the Western Cancer Centre, with construction commencing in 2020 and the facility officially opening on 5 March 2022[4].

Activities

The foundation supports cancer patients through:

• Expanded Treatment Access: Pioneering outreach models delivering therapies in regional towns such as Cobar, Coonabarabran, and Mudgee, reducing travel burdens for patients[4].
• Patient and Family Support: Providing resources to address holistic needs, including emotional and practical support during and after treatment[1][2].
• Advocacy: Collaborating with healthcare providers and governments to improve cancer care infrastructure, exemplified by the establishment of the Western Cancer Centre[4].

Impact

By bridging gaps in public healthcare services, the WCCF ensures patients receive comprehensive care closer to home. Its efforts have transformed cancer treatment accessibility in Western NSW, serving as a model for regional healthcare innovation[4].

[1] https://wccf.org.au [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/fa05b71a-af64-ea11-a811-000d3ad1ce4e/profile [3] https://westcancerfoundation.org [4] https://wccf.org.au/our-story [5] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/fa05b71a-af64-ea11-a811-000d3ad1ce4e/people