MAD at the Museum

On Sunday 6 April 2025, the MAD Foundation community gathered at Treetops in the Melbourne Museum.

MAD at the Museum brought together beneficiary families, referral partners, sponsors, donors, ambassadors and MAD volunteers.

The morning gave the MAD community a chance to connect in person. It also created space to reflect on the work we do together.

Guests heard from MAD President Damian Toohey and Beneficiary Ambassador Laura Cooke. They also heard from Dr Neil Wimalasundera, Director of the Victorian Paediatric Rehabilitation Service at the Royal Children’s Hospital, and Dr Susie Gibb, Medical Lead of the Complex Care Hub at the Royal Children’s Hospital.

Each speaker shared a different perspective on MAD’s work. Together, they showed how MAD supports children and young people living with disability and hardship.

They also reminded us that this support depends on a caring and engaged community.

For 25 years, MAD has worked closely with referral partners across Victoria’s leading paediatric healthcare organisations. These include the Royal Children’s Hospital, Monash Children’s Hospital, the Victorian Paediatric Rehabilitation Service and Very Special Kids.

These trusted relationships sit at the heart of MAD’s impact. They allow us to respond quickly when families need support.

MAD grants fund vital equipment and therapies. Often, this support helps families when no other funding is available.

As needs become more complex and costs continue to rise, our community’s support remains essential.

We thank everyone who joined us for MAD at the Museum. Your generosity, compassion and commitment help MAD keep making a difference.

You can support MAD’s work by donating via our website.

Together, we are bringing those in need together with those that can.