Townsville University Hospital nurse Chole Gage steps into leadership role at RizeUp

A Townsville nurse is going the extra mile, spending her spare time helping domestic violence survivors rebuild their lives. See how a donation could make the ultimate difference.

Leone Lovegrove TUH child protection unit team leader and clinical nurse consultant, and Chole Gage TUH child protection unit clinical nurse and leader for RizeUp’s Townsville Hub.

A Townsville nurse has stepped into a crucial role, volunteering her spare time to provide victims and survivors of domestic violence with essential items like furniture, toiletries and food.

When Chole Gage isn’t doing her rounds at the Townsville University Hospital (TUH), she is dedicating her time as a leader at RizeUp, a national organisation dedicated to providing people leaving domestic violence situations with safe spaces and everyday items.

Ms Gage said safety and anonymity of victims and survivors while providing them with practical support is the organisation’s priority.

“It’s incredibly fulfilling to create these comfortable spaces for those starting fresh after often

traumatic circumstances,” she said.

“The frustration over the state of domestic and family violence in our community drives

people to participate in campaigns like this.”

“People want to help and make a difference.”

During August, Ms Gage led a RizeUp donation drive collecting bathroom and toiletry items that will be placed in homes used by victims and survivors.

RizeUp Australia chief executive officer Nicolle Edwards said she was excited to see the support from the Townsville community.

“RizeUp is thrilled to be active in Townsville, offering a terrific opportunity for members of the

community to join our growing team,” she said.

“By getting involved, individuals can become a crucial part of the solution for those

experiencing domestic and family violence.”

“We now have ten dedicated volunteers in Townsville and are always welcoming more.”

Townsville residents are encouraged to contribute items for the August donation drive or

volunteer their time.

New donations can be dropped off at TUH’s child protection unit until the end of August.

For more information on what to donate, contact [e-mail] or for information on

how to join the RizeUp team contact [e-mail].

Originally published as Townsville University Hospital nurse Chole Gage steps into leadership role at RizeUp