Simon Lund dedicated over 25 years to serving the Victorian community as a CFA staff member and volunteer, responding to nearly every major emergency in recent decades — from bushfires and floods to mine fires. His commitment on the frontline has come at a personal cost: Simon was diagnosed with a terminal illness linked to toxic exposure during his service.

Simon’s story underscores the urgent need for legislative change to better protect emergency workers facing occupational illnesses. In his final chapter, Maryvale Private Hospital provided Simon and his family with compassionate and dignified palliative care.

We are delighted to share that, thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we have reached the fundraising goal for our inaugural appeal. 

Inspired by Simon, the Lund family led a heartfelt campaign to bring a palliative care cuddle bed to Maryvale Private Hospital. With the support of so many, this vision has now become a reality. 

The cuddle bed will give families the chance to spend their final moments together with dignity, love and connection. It is a beautiful tribute to Simon’s legacy and a meaningful enhancement to our patient-centered care.