A dying dad will be able to say his last goodbye to four young children after Aussies rallied together to fund their huge mandatory quarantine bill.
The NSW-based family of Queensland father Mark Keans was granted permission to cross the border to visit him on Thursday, but told they must fork out $16,000 for transport and quarantine.
Mr Keans is suffering from cancer and doctors are saying it is unlikely he’ll live beyond Christmas.
The Queensland government has agreed to allow all the children to cross the border is a case that caused national outrage.
But this was only allowed on one condition – that they spend two weeks in hotel quarantine at their own expense.
They would also need to wear full personal protective equipment when visiting Mark.
A GoFundMe page was set up in the hopes it would raise $30,000, but it was paused after surpassing $200,000.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison also chipped in, donating $1,000.
“Honestly cannot thank everyone enough for all the generous donations,” the organiser of the fundraiser wrote.
“Mark’s family are so very appreciative and this will take the financial burden off of their shoulders so now they focus solely on Mark.
“Thank you again everyone.”
Queensland Health has defended its controversial decision.
“We are in the midst of a global pandemic and we need to protect our communities, especially the most vulnerable members,” it said in a statement.
“We understand the health directions in place are strict, but they are designed to protect Queenslanders.”
Mr Keans father Bruce Langborne told Sunrise the family was incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support.
“I can’t believe what’s happened, it’s unbelievable,” he said.
This article originally appeared on Over60.