General News
6 May, 2026
In a tribute to Jet
A MOTHER’S heartbreak is becoming a powerful force for change, with a new community event honouring the life of 21- year-old Jet Leavers set to shine a light on mental health this Mother’s Day.
The inaugural ‘Chasing the Light’ – Jet’s Memorial Poker Fundraiser will be held on Sunday 10 May 2026 at the Big4 Kurrimine Beach Holiday Park from noon, raising awareness and vital funds for mental health research.
Founder and event organiser Cindy Bogan said the idea for the fundraiser was born from the devastating loss of her son to suicide.
“This profound loss is something no family should ever have to carry, but it made me realise there are many others in our communities, familiar faces we see every day, who are walking the same path,” she said.
Jet, described as bright, funny and fiercely loyal, had a gift for bringing people together.
“He loved his family, his mates, music, cars and being around people. He was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back, even when he was struggling himself,” Ms Bogan said.
Behind his warm personality, Jet had been battling mental illness for a decade, including borderline personality disorder and paranoia.
“Just days before his passing, he spoke about wanting a future, sobriety and having his family close,” Ms Bogan said.
“This isn’t just about my son, it is about every family sitting at a table with an empty seat. If by sharing Jet’s story we can start one conversation and make one person feel seen or reach out, then we are already making a difference.”
Instead of a traditional poker run, participants will register and collect playing cards at set times throughout the afternoon.
By day’s end, each player will have a full hand, with the best poker hand taking the win. The family-friendly day will also feature raffles, meat and seafood trays, 100 boards, a silent auction, children’s colouring competition, live music, food and a range of activities.
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