Our Programs
Every Willow Rose program is free for the families who need it, funded by community fundraising and delivered entirely by volunteers.
Diabetes Essential Packs
The first weeks after a diabetes diagnosis are a whirlwind. Our free Diabetes Essential Packs give newly diagnosed individuals and families a practical head start, delivered with a friendly face and an open invitation to our community.
Each pack typically includes:
- Hypo treatment supplies — juice poppers, glucose tabs and low-treatment snacks
- A carry case for day-to-day diabetes supplies
- Plain-English guides on carb counting, school care and travelling with diabetes
- Information on CGM technology and how to access subsidised devices
- An invitation to our Local Support & Connect events
Know a family who could use a pack? Contact us — there is no cost and no waiting list.
Local Support & Connect
Living with diabetes can feel isolating — for the person diagnosed and for the parents, partners and siblings supporting them. Our Local Support & Connect program brings the community together regularly so nobody has to figure it out alone.
- Family catch-ups — relaxed park days and picnics where kids with T1D meet other kids just like them
- Parent peer support — honest conversations about pumps, CGMs, school plans and sleepless nights
- Coeliac-friendly gatherings — events with gluten-free catering, because many of our families manage both conditions
- Social networking events — building friendships that last well beyond the event
Events are announced on our News page and Facebook community. Everyone is welcome — diagnosed yesterday or decades ago.
Bunnings Sausage Sizzle Fundraisers
An Aussie institution — and our main fundraiser. Several times a year, our volunteers fire up the barbecue at local Bunnings Warehouse stores across Melbourne's south-east.
Every sausage sold helps fund Diabetes Essential Packs, community events and awareness campaigns. It's also one of the best ways to meet our team: grab a snag, have a chat, and learn what we do.
- 100% of proceeds go directly to Willow Rose programs
- Volunteer shifts are just a few hours — training and a warm welcome provided
- Upcoming sizzle dates are posted on our News page
Awareness & CGM Access Advocacy
Understanding saves lives. Many Australians still can't recognise the early signs of type 1 diabetes — and delayed diagnosis can lead to dangerous diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). We run community awareness activities to change that.
- Know the 4 T's campaigns — Toilet, Thirsty, Tired, Thinner: the early warning signs of type 1 diabetes
- CGM technology awareness — helping families understand continuous glucose monitoring and Australian subsidy programs
- World Diabetes Day (14 November) — annual community activities in blue
- Coeliac awareness — practical education on managing coeliac disease alongside diabetes
Need support, or know someone who does?
All of our programs are free. Reach out and we'll connect you with the right support — no referral needed.
Contact Us Today