We’re proud to celebrate Keirson, Jody and Karla as Mater Foundation Community Heroes, in recognition of their generosity and the positive impact they’re creating through the Kalbar Sunflower Festival. For three years, this dedicated trio has volunteered their time to run the festival’s much-loved Pick Your Own stand, helping raise funds to support Mater Hospital Springfield’s cancer services.
Their story is one of friendship and resilience. Keirson first met festival founders Jenny & Russell Jenner while both Keirson and Russell were receiving treatment at Mater Cancer Care Centre Springfield. What began as a connection through shared experience grew into a lasting friendship and a shared commitment to giving back. With her close friends Jody and Karla, Keirson turned that commitment into action, leading the trio to volunteer at the festival and help create something special for the community each year.
Long before festivalgoers arrive, Keirson, Jody and Karla are already hard at work preparing the Pick Your Own stand — making sure everything is ready to welcome visitors. Across long days, they greet every guest with warmth and enthusiasm, helping create an experience that has become a cherished part of the festival.
Their contribution goes far beyond logistics. Through small but meaningful moments — sharing a smile, helping someone choose the perfect sunflower, or simply creating a space filled with joy and connection — they leave a lasting impression on everyone who visits. For many festivalgoers, the Pick Your Own stand is more than a final stop of the day; it’s one of the memories they take home with them.
As Keirson reflects, “When festival goers walk away with armfuls of bright yellow sunflowers, they’re also carrying a piece of the dedication and love these volunteers pour into the festival year after year — a reminder that community spirit blossoms because of everyday heroes who choose to give.”
The Kalbar Sunflower Festival thrives because of volunteers like Keirson, Jody and Karla, and the families who support them behind the scenes. Through their ongoing support, they are helping strengthen cancer services and ensure more families can access care close to home.
Thank you Keirson, Jody and Karla, we value your inspiring contribution and community spirit.
