Jacob Bruinewoud from the Ultra Class Trucks maintenance team at the Goonyella Riverside mine knows firsthand the impact of leukaemia. Now three years in remission, he considers himself one of the lucky ones.
Jacob not only ran the 21.1km half-marathon in this year’s BMA Mackay Marina Run alongside his family, friends and workmates, but also absolutely smashed fundraising, raising over $11,964 for the Leukaemia Foundation to become our event’s top individual fundraiser.
For Jacob, the BMA Mackay Marina Run is more than a race. It’s an opportunity to give back, honour those affected by leukaemia and support a cause close to his heart.
Along his journey, Jacob met many others facing the same battle, including people who never got the opportunity to leave the hospital and return home to their loved ones. Their stories continue to drive him and inspire his commitment to making a difference.
While Jacob cannot donate blood himself, he understands how life-changing blood donations can be. They helped save his life and continue to save countless others every day, making his fundraising efforts even more meaningful.
Supported by his family and friends, Jacob is proud to use his experience to raise awareness and vital funds for the Leukaemia Foundation.
And he’s not slowing down anytime soon. Already planning to return to the BMA Mackay Marina Run next year alongside his wife, Jacob is ready to tackle the course again and chase a new personal best.
The BMA Mackay Marina Run will return on Sunday, 6 June 2027.
