Through community fundraising, we fund essential equipment for hospitals, health organisations, and children in need. We also invest in the future of Victorian healthcare by supporting scientific research, scholarships, and fellowships. This includes supporting education through Scholarships and Fellowships at The Royal Children’s Hospital and research initiatives like the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute.
In December 1941, as the world faced the challenges of war, a simple act of generosity sparked something extraordinary. At the Riversdale Hotel in Hawthorn, a raffle book was passed around, raising funds for the Children’s Hospital’s Orthopaedic Section.
Four men at the bar that night were so inspired by the response that they decided to create a group dedicated to supporting children’s health year-round. Membership was set at a shilling (a “bob”) a week, and in January 1942, Uncle Bobs Club was born.
From those early days, the Club has grown from a single local group to a statewide network of volunteers, expanding beyond The Royal Children’s Hospital to support hospitals, health services, and families across Victoria.
Today, Uncle Bobs Club continues to honour its founders’ vision by combining community fundraising, volunteer dedication, and a focus on local impact — improving children’s healthcare for generations to come.
Fundraising Partners
Supporters
Supporters
UBC receives no government funding and relies entirely on the generosity of our supporters and the tireless work of our volunteers. The majority of funds raised go directly to improving children’s healthcare across Victoria through: vital hospital equipment, support for individual children with medical needs, scholarships and fellowships to strengthen healthcare education and training and ongoing scientific research.
A small percentage of funds is used for administration and fundraising, much of which is driven by our dedicated volunteers. Community fundraising is essential to generating donations and supporters so we can continue our important work.
UBC has branches and groups throughout Victoria, in both metropolitan and regional areas. These teams are made up of passionate volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to improving children’s healthcare.
We are community-based, with a philosophy of local giving for local health. This means that, alongside our state-wide projects, we also provide funding to local hospitals, healthcare services, and children who need our support, so every dollar raised makes a difference close to home.
Explore the interactive map to visit our Branch and Group pages
