History of Pathfinders
From one man's inspiration, many children have reaped benefits. In 1967, on a routine flight to Hawaii, Qantas Chief Steward Pat McGann OAM (pictured right with his wife, Maureen) read an article about a young Brisbane boy dying of leukaemia. He immediately "passed the hat" around his crew so they could buy toys for the boy during his final days. However, when they arrived home, the child had died.
That was when Pat decided to give the toys to the children at the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC).
Pat was so impressed with the work of RIDBC that he formed an auxiliary which he named "Pathfinders" - after the famed squadron which dropped flares to "light the way", for airborne assaults during World War II.
Today, Pathfinders' members consist of Qantas Cabin Crew, Tech Crew, Ground Staff and ex-Qantas staff. They do almost anything that will raise money for the children at the RIDBC - Trivia Quiz nights, the Revue, Pathfinders Lottery, theatre nights and of course the Annual Jumbo Joy Flight for children with disabilities and disadvantaged backgrounds.
Over their history, Pathfinders have raised over $5 million and have become one of the most successful fundraising auxiliaries in Australia. When Pat first started the group, they were a very social bunch. The same can be said today - all Pathfinders activities are based around "fun". The Trivia Nights are known far and wide and the Revue is a "sell out", each year. However, the Annual Jumbo Joy Flight is one event where your help is really appreciated - just seeing the delight on the faces of all those kids is a truly memorable experience.
With ongoing support from crew and staff, Pathfinders will continue their fundraising activities for the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children. If you would like to join us, or would like details regarding Pathfinders, or upcoming events, please contact Kaye Bailey, Co-ordinator, Clubs and Auxiliaries, on (02)9872 0329 email kaye.bailey@ridbc.org.au.
Pat McGann is now happily retired and living in Queensland. He and Maureen were guests of honour at the Pathfinders' 40th Anniversary Dinner in Sydney in 2007. They love to hear what Pathfinders are doing and are justly proud that the little auxiliary he set up in 1967 continues to assist children to reach their full potential in life.
