Last month Queensland farewelled former Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, the Hon Rod Welford, who passed away in June aged 66.
While his most high-profile role was as a state government minister during the 1990s and 2000s, Rod remained deeply involved in community and charitable organisations. He held a long-term vision of supporting those most in need – across every generation.
True to his character as a man of action, he had already found a direct, impactful and enduring way to fulfil his wish of improving lives through long-term support for causes close to his heart.
Earlier this year, Rod made a significant living gift and personal bequest of $5 million to Queensland Gives, committing to the causes that shaped his life: social change, environmental protection, and education.
His gift was the largest legacy donation ever made by an individual to Queensland Gives in its nearly 30-year history.
Rod selected five beneficiary charities for the Welford Sustainable Future Fund: two environmental organisations (Environmental Defenders Office and Queensland Trust for Nature), two social change initiatives (The Australia Institute and The Centre for Public Integrity), and a scholarship program at Griffith University.
In discussions with Queensland Gives CEO Tara Castle, Rod expressed his desire to give back to Queensland in perpetuity.
“Rod’s $5 million gift will have an incredible impact for generations to come, and we are truly honoured to deliver his vision,” Ms Castle said.
Rod was reassured by Queensland Gives’ credibility, governance and scale – now managing $160 million in funds and distributing an estimated $6.3 million to around 300 charitable causes across Queensland this financial year.
“Everything is measured by financial terms…but money can’t buy you a sustainable environment, love, or relationships. It’s the energy and personal resources you commit to others that provide the deepest satisfaction,” Rod told Queensland Gives.
Rod hoped to inspire others – particularly high-net-worth individuals – to follow his lead.
Queensland Gives is proud to be the guardian of his legacy, helping shape Queensland not only as a place of natural beauty and opportunity, but as a community with the tools to care for itself – forever.
Those with a connection to Queensland and a commitment to doing good, like Rod Welford, are invited to contribute to the Welford Sustainable Future Fund.
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