At just 19 years old, Charlie Yeomans has already made a significant impact. Originally from Walgett, a remote town in New South Wales, Charlie raised an incredible $5,000 for Rosies – Friends on the Street by collecting and recycling old car batteries from farms across his community. 

Charlie was inspired by his dad, who once raised money for the local rugby club the same way. With farmers often having batteries sitting around on pallets, Charlie saw an opportunity to do something meaningful. “We picked up about 12 pallets. I think we ended up with around seven tonnes,” he says. The result? A $5,000 donation to Rosies, presented at his school valedictory. 

Charlie attended Downlands College in Toowoomba as a boarder from grade seven. He first connected with Rosies in grade nine, eventually becoming deeply involved as a senior student. As vice-captain, a leadership role focused on mission, Charlie wanted to find a meaningful way to raise funds. 

“I was having a bit of trouble finding ideas, and this one just made sense. It was something I could organise from school, then go home on the holidays and help collect the batteries,” he explains. With support from his family and the local community, the project came to life. 

His connection to Toowoomba runs deep. His mum is a Downlands old girl, and his grandparents retired in the area. Although Charlie grew up in Walgett, his family ties to Toowoomba and his time at Downlands created a strong sense of community, especially through his experiences with Rosies. 

“I quite liked and got a lot out of Rosies. I enjoyed the Friday barbecues, chatting to the patrons and volunteers, and even helped with early-morning Bunnings sausage sizzles,” Charlie shares. “This was my way of giving back.” 

Charlie’s donation will help support Rosies Toowoomba’s outreach services, which provide connection, conversation, and a sense of belonging for people who are homeless, at risk, or socially isolated. Funds like these help cover the cost of essentials such as hot drinks, snack packs, volunteer supplies, and van maintenance, ensuring Rosies can continue to show up week after week in the Toowoomba community. 

Now living in Brisbane and settling into life in the big city, Charlie continues to carry with him the values of giving, sustainability, and compassion that shaped his time with Rosies.