General News
30 May, 2026
Jet’s lasting legacy
A POWERFUL wave of community spirit swept through BIG4 Kurrimine Beach Holiday Park on Sunday, 10 May, as hundreds gathered for the ‘Chasing the Light Community Family Day’, an event created by Cindy Bogan in honour of her son, Jet Leavers, and dedicated to sparking honest conversations about mental health.
What began as one mother’s deeply personal response to unimaginable loss grew into a day filled with connection, compassion and hope. Visitors travelled from as far as Brisbane to take part, with 46 registered poker hand players joining the fundraiser and families filling the park for activities, games and live music by Dr Flouride.
So far, the event has raised $5350 for the Black Dog Institute, with final donations still being counted from the popular ‘Jet Parmi,’ a menu item that appeared on almost every food docket throughout the day. Local businesses and supporters also contributed close to $20,000 in cash sponsorship and prizes. Raffle tickets sold out.
Families enjoyed board games, paint and sip sessions, footy games, scavenger hunts and a performance by Dr Flouride, but for organiser Cindy Bogan, the most meaningful moments came from the conversations.
“People spoke openly and without judgement about their own struggles with mental health,” she said. “They connected with complete strangers, checked in on one another and talked honestly, which is exactly why Chasing the Light was created.”
Ms Bogan said the event honoured Jet’s memory by encouraging the kind of openness he deserved.
“Jet deserved a world that spoke louder about mental health, connection and checking in on people before it is too late,” she said.
“Seeing the community come together in black and gold, supporting not only our family but each other, was overwhelming in the most beautiful way.”
Following the success of the day, Ms Bogan announced a new monthly initiative, ‘Cast Lines. Strong Minds.’ The gatherings will bring people together for a relaxed fish from the beach or jetty, followed by a barbecue and conversation.
“The goal is to create a judgement-free space where people can show up exactly as they are,” she said.
“Sometimes people don’t need formal settings or appointments, they just need someone beside them and a reminder they’re not alone.”
Chasing the Light will return in 2027, with plans to continue growing the movement and strengthening community connections. Ms Bogan thanked all involved, including sponsors, volunteers and donors.
Read More: Kurrimine Beach