If you are a regular at the Mackay Base Hospital Gift Shop, chances are Maddison Hunt already knows you.
Some customers know Maddi so well they automatically turn their purchases around so she can scan them, while others arrive ready for the cheeky banter. It is a small interaction, but it says a lot about the place Maddi has made for herself in the community.
Maddi grew up in Mackay, attending West Mackay State School, Mercy College and Mackay District Special School, and has always been determined to be as independent as possible while living with Cerebral Palsy and using a power wheelchair.
“The Mackay community sees me for the person I am rather than the disability that I have. It has shown patience for when I need a little bit more time to do things and values me for my abilities and what I can do,” said Maddi.
Her volunteering journey began in Grade 11 at Beaconsfield C&K Kindergarten, driven by an interest in working with children. That early interest has since come full circle, with Maddi now working at Ooralea Education and Care Centre.
Along the way she also volunteered at Coles, Best & Less and the community library, but the role that has remained part of her life the longest is at the Mackay Base Hospital Gift Shop. Maddi started there in 2018 alongside fellow volunteer Dianne Millen. At first she sat at the front of the shop selling Auxiliary raffle tickets, before moving behind the counter where she now serves customers, prices items and helps restock.
“I mostly enjoy the people I work with and seeing the familiar customers and helping them in any way I can.
“I absolutely love working with Dianne and we’ve become really good friends.”
Maddi is also involved in Wheelchair Dancing through Disabled Sport and Rec Mackay, where she helps choreograph performances, runs weekly practices and performs each year at Crossroad Arts’ Loose Ends. She is also President of Disabled Sport and Rec Mackay, yet the hospital has remained part of her life since 2018.
“My volunteering at the hospital has always been a priority to keep in my busy schedule because it makes me feel that I am contributing something valuable.
“It is very important that volunteers receive positive feedback on their efforts to help the community. It makes everybody feel valued and a part of a team to deliver a service for the hospital.”
The My Hospital Foundation Volunteer Program is supported by Community Bank Sarina, helping volunteers continue the work they do across the hospital. For anyone who has thought about volunteering but has not yet taken that first step, Maddi believes the experience can offer much more than simply giving your time.
“It helps to grow your self-confidence and learn new skills.
“It gives you life perspectives on what other people may be going through and what you can possibly do in a small way to make them feel better.”
In August, after eight years volunteering at Mackay Base Hospital, Maddi was named Volunteer of the Year at the 2026 Mackay Hospital and Health Service Let’s Celebrate Gala. A fitting recognition for someone who has spent years living by a simple philosophy.
“Live the life you love.”
