Inspiring cave divers and rescue heroes to visit Toowoomba thanks to Hospital Foundation

The two inspiring divers tasked with rescuing the Thai soccer team trapped in a cave will be coming to the Darling Downs to share their heroic stories.

Australians of the Year and cave divers Dr Craig Challen and Dr Richard Harris are coming to Toowoomba.

In July 2018, the world watched on as Australian cave divers Dr Richard Harris and Dr Craig Challen rescued a team of 12 junior soccer players and their coach from a flooded cave in Thailand where they had been trapped, fearing for their lives.

Now, the heroic pair heads to Toowoomba, and are inviting residents to listen to their incredible story.

Toowoomba Hospital Foundation CEO Alison Kennedy said the whole of Australia had embraced Dr Harris and Dr Challen as heroes, whose efforts cemented them as legends.

“Listening and watching the story unfold when it first broke was nailbiting stuff, the bravery and courage of not only the rescue team but also the boys who were trapped in that cave is truly admirable,” she said.

“What Dr Harris and Dr Challen achieved under such circumstances is absolutely awe-inspiring and the Foundation is excited to welcome them to Toowoomba to share their story with our community.”

On March 12, Dr Harris and Dr Challen will speak at the Tilly’s Legends At Their Game Luncheon at Rumours International, hosted by the Toowoomba Hospital Foundation.

Mrs Kennedy said it was a great opportunity to gather together in support of raising funds for vital mental health services.

“We’re hoping to raise as much as we can so that we can support Darling Downs Health in bringing much-needed mental health services to our rural communities,” she said.

“The past year has been incredibly tough, and we hope our Legends at their Game Luncheon will not only give friends, families and work colleagues the opportunity to have a great day out but also give them the opportunity and bring awareness to the importance of checking in on your mates.”

Tickets for Tilly’s Legends At Their Game Luncheon are on sale now, and are $170 per person and includes a three-course meal and beverage package.

Visit https://www.toowoombahospitalfoundation.org.au/events.