Inmates’ firewood project sparks emotional cancer donation
Months of sawing, splitting, and stacking have culminated in a powerful $8000 donation for Riverina residents battling cancer, all thanks to the hard labour of inmates at Mannus Correctional Centre.
The team turned 86 tonnes of fallen timber from the centre’s 4000-acre property into a vital lifeline for the Tumbarumba branch of Can Assist.
Led by overseer Tracy John, the inmates embarked on the project to clear the grounds and give back to the community.
“We thought, there’s so much wood on the ground, why not clean up the paddocks, cut it, and sell it?” Ms John said.
The 192 bins of firewood were sold to staff, with every dollar earmarked for the local charity, which provides crucial support for patients and their families.
“Can Assist does incredible work helping people with transport, treatment and support when they have cancer,” Ms John noted. “And they’re not government-funded.”
The scale of the effort was matched by the emotion of the handover. At a recent morning tea, representatives from Can Assist were overcome by the gesture.
“They were so appreciative they were almost in tears,” Ms John recalled.
Beyond the significant funds raised, the project has had a profound impact on the inmates themselves. It has equipped them with practical skills while fostering a strong sense of purpose and connection to the community they are helping.
“It teaches them about giving back to the community, and they’re all for that,” Ms John said.
The project’s success has cemented it as an ongoing initiative. The Mannus crew is already hard at work preparing next year’s firewood, determined to continue supporting Riverina people through their fight with cancer.
November 3 2025
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