The Mount Molloy community is coming together tomorrow evening to support the family of baby Cody, a 13-day-old infant who recently had to be airlifted from Cairns to Townsville hospitals in a critical condition. 

Born with a severe lung and heart condition and fighting three different infections, Cody required urgent specialised care after his condition worsened. 

The day he was airlifted, his family feared the worst.

“We thought we were going to lose him,” Cody’s aunt Ashlee Young told Newsport on Wednesday. 

“It was such a critical moment, but thankfully, he made it through."

Despite the challenges, Cody’s condition has shown signs of improvement, bringing some relief to his family during this difficult time.

Speaking about Cody’s progress, Ashlee shared an update.

“He still has issues with his heart, lungs, and stomach, but as the days go by, he’s improving," she said. "He’s still struggling to drink an entire bottle due to his underdeveloped lungs, but he’s managing half, with the rest fed through a tube.

“He is no longer in the high-risk category, which is a huge relief after how critical he was when first airlifted.”

The emergency has left his parents unable to work while they stay by his side, and mounting expenses have added to their challenges.

The family has expressed immense gratitude to the community for their support. 

“The generosity has been overwhelming,” Ashlee said. 

“We just want to thank everyone for coming together. It’s amazing how much the community has stepped up to help us during this difficult time.”

For now, the family remains focused on Cody’s recovery. 

“His parents are doing OK,” Ashlee shared. “They just want him to get better. It’s been an incredibly hard time, but they’re so grateful for everyone’s support. It means the world to them.”

A fundraiser organised by Ashlee Young and Shane McElligott from the Mount Molloy National Hotel will be held tomorrow night (Friday, January 24) to help ease the family’s financial burden.

The fundraiser gained momentum even before its official launch. 

“We didn’t even know about Cody’s condition until late Friday night,” Shane said. 

“The next morning, we donated $500, and soon after, others joined in. The last thing the family should worry about is money.”

The event will include raffles, $10 draw tickets, and opportunities for direct donations.

Plans are also underway for a larger event next week involving local businesses and a mini-auction to raise additional funds.

The fundraiser takes place on Friday, January 24, at Mt Molloy pub the National Hotel from 6.30pm. Bookings are required. Phone 040941133

Maritime authorities are cracking down on boaties flouting the rules this Australia Day long weekend. 

Queensland Police and Maritime Safety Queensland say they will be increasing patrols across the state, focusing on proper use of lifejackets, enforcing speed limits, checking licences, and testing for drink and drug driving. 

Authorities are also urging boaties to stay vigilant, and be ready to adjust plans, if weather conditions turn dangerous in the next few days. 

Police, MSQ, SEQWater and Marine Rescue Queensland have all joined forces to emphasise the importance of water safety. 

Those fishing, jet skiing, sailing or paddleboarding are reminded to pay close attention to the weather and possible risks before heading out. 

State Government Police and Emergency Services Minister Dan Purdie said water safety was everyone’s responsibility.  

“Queenslanders out on the water can celebrate the weekend, while also being mindful of water safety,” Minister Purdie said.

“Whether you’re on the road or on the water, the holiday weekend doesn’t mean you can take a break from doing the right thing.” 

QPS Acting Superintendent Mark Bradford said severe weather could strike suddenly. 

“A change in weather can happen in the blink of an eye, and that can make the difference between a fun day on the water and a life-threatening emergency,” he said. 

“It is essential to monitor forecasts and, if conditions worsen, make an early call to return to shore so you’re not caught in a dangerous situation.” 

There were 64 deaths in water-related incidents in Queensland from 2019-24.

Of the eight people who were presumed to have drowned last year, only one was known to have been wearing a life jacket.

Marine rescue services are provided by MRQ, Volunteer Marine Rescue and Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association. 

Water safety tips can be found at mrq.qld.gov.au