Kay Van Norton Poche Philanthropist who gave away millions dies

One of Australia’s greatest philanthropists, whose money helped millions of Australians, has died.

She and her husband, Greg Poche, gave away more than $150 million to numerous causes after selling his logistics business, Star Track Express, for $750 million in 2003.

They mostly transferred cash to health facilities across the country.

That includes paying more than $50 million for Poche Community Health Centers at universities across the country.

They also gave $5 million to a young people’s hospice in Manly on Sydney’s northern beaches, where they lived.

They gave $40 million to melanoma specialist The Poche Centre in Sydney, which at the time was the largest donation to a single cause in Australia.

Charities, health organizations and politicians have paid tribute to Van Norton Poche, calling her a “visionary” and hailing her generosity.

“We are forever indebted to the foresight, generosity and kindness of both Kay and Greg Poche,” said Melanoma Institute Australia Deputy Medical Director, Associate Professor Jonathan Stretch.

The North Foundation, the fundraising partner of the North Sydney Local Health District, said her “legacy of generosity and compassion has left an indelible mark on our community and her unwavering commitment to advancing healthcare will inspire generations to come”.

The foundation said she was treated by oncologist Professor Stephen Clarke at the Royal North Shore Hospital, who called her a “visionary”.

Kay was born in upstate New York, US, and said her generosity was inspired by her father, who survived World War II and wanted to help those less fortunate .

When husband Greg sold his business, she said the couple was inspired to help others.

“After the sale, me and Greg looked at each other and thought ‘oh my god, that’s 10 times what we can spend in our lifetime, let’s give it away, let’s give it back to the country,'” she told Manly Daily.

The pair were also big benefactors of the Manly Sea Eagles NRL team.

In 2019, Kay received an Officer of the Order of Australia.

Local MP James Griffin also praised her legacy.

“Sadly we have lost a wonderful man who made an impact that will never be forgotten,” said James Griffin, MP for Manly.

“Her generosity, along with her husband Greg, ensures that people who need help, no matter where they live in NSW, get it.”