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CANCER SURVIVOR PROGRAM

Free 12-week program
Rebuild strength. Regain confidence. Connect with people who understand.

The Y Queensland Cancer Survivor Program is a free 12-week exercise and support program for people living with, through and beyond cancer.

Led by trainers experienced in supportive cancer care, the program provides tailored exercise in a safe and welcoming environment. It is designed to help participants rebuild strength, improve confidence and support their physical and emotional wellbeing.

Just as importantly, it brings people together. Participants train alongside others who understand some of what they are going through, creating friendships and support that often continue well beyond the 12 weeks.

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Find a Cancer Survivor Program near you

The program is currently available at six Y locations across Queensland.

Bowen Hills

Brisbane

Jamboree Heights

Brisbane

Victoria Point

Redlands

Caloundra

Sunshine Coast

Warwick

Southern Downs

Stanthorpe

Southern Downs

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Supporting Queenslanders since 2016

The Cancer Survivor Program began at The Y Bowen Hills in 2016. Since then, it has grown across Queensland, supporting people to rebuild their strength, confidence and connection during and after cancer.
Program impact figures current as at 30 June 2026.

1,197

people supported since the program began

30,000+

individual participations

6

Queensland locations

164

participants in 2025/26
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What makes the Cancer Survivor Program different?

Exercise tailored to you

Cancer and cancer treatment can affect everyone differently.

Our trainers work with participants to provide exercise that reflects their individual needs, abilities and stage of recovery. The focus is on gradually rebuilding strength, fitness, balance and confidence in a supportive environment.


Research and evaluation undertaken with the University of Queensland has found improvements in participants’ physical strength, aerobic endurance and overall quality of life.

Connection with people who understand

For many participants, the program becomes about much more than exercise.

Training as part of a small group gives people the opportunity to connect with others who understand some of the challenges that can come with cancer and recovery.


Around 80% of surveyed participants reported forming at least one new friendship through the program.

Support in your community

The program takes place at local Y centres rather than in a hospital or clinical environment.

Participants can exercise, connect and rebuild confidence in a welcoming community setting, with people alongside them throughout the 12 weeks.

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    A program that can change what feels possible

    The program has meant a lot to me. It’s had a huge positive impact personally, physically and mentally. My muscle tone, strength and balance improved, but mentally I also became more grounded after listening to my fellow program members and hearing their journeys.

    Kelvin O’Keefe, Cancer Survivor Program participant, Victoria Point
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    Help us reach more Queenslanders

    Since 2016, the Cancer Survivor Program has been provided free of charge to participants.

    As demand grows, we want to make the program available to more people, more often and in more communities across Queensland.

    Whether you choose to donate or partner with us, your support can help more Queenslanders rebuild their strength, confidence and connection during and after cancer.

    Support from individuals, businesses, philanthropic organisations and community partners helps us:

    • Run programs more frequently
    • Respond to growing demand
    • Keep participation free
    • Bring the program to more Queensland communities
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    Interested in partnering with us?

    We’re looking for organisations, funders and philanthropic partners who want to help grow the Cancer Survivor Program and make it available to more Queenslanders.

    To discuss partnership opportunities, contact

    Gina Gilmore

    Executive Lead, Marketing, Communications & Partnerships
    Y Queensland
    This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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