Keely carries baton in fight against cancer

LGIAsuper Community Volunteer Award winner Keely Johnson was one of 16 locals who participated in the Queen’s Baton Relay as it made its way through Ayr in the Burdekin Shire last Monday.

The baton began its journey at Buckingham Palace more than a year ago and is due to arrive on the Gold Coast in time for the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony on 4 April 2018.

Keely said she was proud to carry the baton on behalf of The Golden Octopus Foundation and everyone who has faced childhood cancer.

“It was all in honour of the kids past, present and future with childhood cancer. I tied a gold ribbon on my left wrist to show the kids they have someone to fight for them.”

Keely recently underwent two rounds of major surgery to treat a tumour in the centre of her brain. Despite the setback, Keely has maintained a busy schedule. She carried the Queen’s baton within days of her latest surgery and the talented musician will play at a fundraiser held in her honour at Beerwah Hotel this weekend.

“Mason Hope and his Nanna, Lisa are in charge of organising it (the fundraiser) and they are both amazing people. I’m looking forward to my upcoming events, including the Queensland Young Achiever Awards dinner.”

In addition to the LGIAsuper Community Volunteer Award, Keely also received the People’s Choice Award at last year’s ceremony. She’s been nominated again in 2018, as well as being a finalist in the Regional Achiever and Leadership categories.

“To be nominated in three categories – I was honestly shocked (to receive the news). I cried last year after winning the LGIAsuper award. I didn’t think I had a hope of winning it.”

We’re extremely proud to partner with the Queensland Young Achiever Awards and witness the wonderful deeds of past award winners. Keep an eye on the LGIAsuper website and social media channels for profiles on this year’s finalists in the lead-up to the gala dinner on 4 May.

Read more about the LGIAsuper Community Volunteer Award.

You can vote for the People’s Choice Award online. The poll closes at midnight on Monday 30 April 2018.

You can also contribute to Keely’s brain surgery fund by visiting her Go Fund Me page. After spending her life helping others, Keely can really use your help. Check it out!

Did you know?
Keely helped raise more than $500,000 to assist families affected by childhood cancer before starting her own charity – The Golden Octopus Foundation (GOF). Keely and the GOF committee have raised an additional $200,000 since. She has her own website dedicated to her musical career and has performed at several North Queensland Cowboys’ home games. Follow Keely’s Facebook page to find out when she’ll next perform at 1300SMILES Stadium. And while you’re at the game, make sure you stop by the LGIAsuper Community Hub where we host charities just like The Golden Octopus Foundation.