Alistair's Story

In 2004, a seemingly ordinary day on the footy field turned into a life-altering moment for the Houghton family. Alistair, the young son of Jo and Peter Houghton, suffered a severe injury when he took a knee to the back of the head, rendering him unconscious. As his condition rapidly worsened, emergency services declared it critical. Alistair was rushed to Mackay Base Hospital and then flown to Townsville University Hospital, fighting for his life.

The week of Alistair's accident was also the week Ronald McDonald House Townsville first opened its doors. The Houghton's became one of the first families to stay at the House, making them an integral part of our chapter’s history. 

To mark our 20-year anniversary, Jo and Peter Houghton returned to Townsville from Mackay as our guests of honour at the 2024 RMHC North Australia Charity Gala. There, they shared their remarkable journey in an interview with our host, Glenn ‘Minty’ Mintern. You can hear their story by watching the interview below.