An account of the Australian Vietnamese Charity Foundation’s medical mission to Phong Nha Commune, Quang Tri Province, Vietnam, 2–8 August 2026

I. A Gathering of Kindred Spirits – United by Compassion

Since its establishment in 2015, the Australian Vietnamese Charity Foundation (AVCF), a registered Australian not-for-profit, non-government charitable organisation, has remained steadfast in its humanitarian mission.

At the heart of AVCF’s activities are its annual medical missions to disadvantaged and remote communities throughout Vietnam, where many people continue to face difficulties accessing essential healthcare services.

In 2026, the call of compassion once again brought together volunteers from different parts of the world, all converging on the beautiful central region of Vietnam to continue their shared mission of serving those in need.

This year’s AVCF mission brought together volunteers from various Australian states and countries across the world. They came from different nationalities, cultures, professions and walks of life, each bringing their own expertise and experience. Yet they were united by one noble purpose: to devote their knowledge, skills and compassion to helping disadvantaged communities.

If one were to compare the AVCF team to a gathering of legendary heroes from the martial arts novels of Jin Yong, this would indeed be an extraordinary assembly of masters from many different schools: general medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, optometry, diagnostic ultrasound, audiology, physiotherapy and numerous other healthcare disciplines.

Each school possessed its own specialised skills, yet all shared the same noble aspiration: to uphold the spirit of chivalry and lend a helping hand to those in need.

What makes these modern-day heroes remarkable is that they carry neither swords nor weapons, nor do they seek fame or supremacy in the martial arts world. Instead, their equipment consists of stethoscopes, dental instruments, ultrasound machines, medicines and, above all, hearts filled with compassion for their fellow human beings.

II. The Ancient Imperial Capital of Hue – Where the Heroes Assemble

On Sunday, 2 August 2026, volunteers from near and far gathered at the Melia Vinpearl Hue Hotel, in the heart of Vietnam’s historic imperial capital.

After warm handshakes, cheerful greetings and the joyful reunion of old friends, everyone quickly turned their attention to the important preparations ahead.

The organising committee began allocating volunteers to their respective teams, assigning duties and responsibilities, and coordinating the arrangements necessary to ensure the smooth running of the medical mission.

Returning volunteers, already familiar with the routines of previous missions, settled into their roles with the confidence and efficiency of seasoned martial arts masters.

Meanwhile, the newcomers, although embarking on their first mission, displayed tremendous enthusiasm, eagerness and determination, showing that they were more than ready to stand alongside their experienced colleagues.

That evening, the opening gala dinner was held in a warm, friendly and festive atmosphere.

It was not only an opportunity for old friends to reunite, but also a chance for new friendships to blossom, as everyone prepared to embark on a meaningful journey together.

III. The Journey to Phong Nha – Travelling Far to Spread Kindness

On Monday morning, 3 August, three coaches generously sponsored by Mr Bui Duc Ngoan, Chairman of Hop Nhat International Company, transported the volunteers from Hue on a journey of approximately four hours to Dong Hoi.

The atmosphere aboard the coaches was reminiscent of a grand gathering of martial arts heroes travelling to a legendary convention.

According to Yen Phuong, the coach carrying dentist Cuong’s dental team was particularly lively, rapidly transforming into a travelling entertainment venue.

The passengers enthusiastically demonstrated their singing and dancing talents, joking, laughing and creating such a commotion that they almost raised the roof!

Fortunately, all three coaches arrived safely at their destination — and, perhaps even more fortunately, their roofs remained firmly intact!

Upon reaching Dong Hoi, the team proceeded directly to the local healthcare facility in Phong Nha Commune to prepare for the three days of clinical work ahead.

Tables and chairs were arranged, consultation areas allocated, medical equipment checked, and medicines and supplies organised in their designated locations.

Everyone lent a hand, willingly taking on whatever tasks were required. Through their combined efforts, ordinary rooms were transformed into a temporary medical centre, ready to welcome and care for the local community.

Once the preparations were completed, the volunteers returned to the Duy Tan Hotel in Dong Hoi for some well-earned rest before the demanding days ahead.

IV. Three Days of Dedicated Service – Under the Central Vietnamese Sun

On Tuesday morning, 4 August, the AVCF team officially commenced its medical mission in Phong Nha Commune.

Before consultations began, representatives of the local authorities and healthcare sector visited the team, offering welcoming remarks, encouragement and their appreciation for the volunteers’ humanitarian efforts.

Their warm reception provided valuable encouragement and strengthened the team’s determination to serve the community.

During the first two days, the team was also delighted to welcome Nguyen Khang and Kim Hoang from Viet TV Australia, who visited the medical centre to observe the activities, interview participants and report on the mission.

Their presence helped bring AVCF’s humanitarian work to the attention of the Vietnamese community in Australia and beyond.

Over three consecutive days, from 4 to 6 August, the various healthcare teams worked tirelessly to provide medical consultations, treatment, health advice and practical assistance to disadvantaged residents.

The weather in Phong Nha was hot and humid, with temperatures at times exceeding 30°C and occasional showers adding to the challenges of working in Central Vietnam’s tropical climate.

Nevertheless, neither the oppressive heat nor the passing rain could dampen the volunteers’ enthusiasm and determination.

Everyone seemed to understand a simple yet profound truth: when we serve others with genuine compassion, even the hardships encountered along the way become easier to bear.

The Unsung Heroes of the Medical Centre

Behind every successful humanitarian mission are not only the healthcare professionals providing direct patient care, but also many dedicated individuals working quietly behind the scenes.

This year, Hoang Do and Susan Huynh unexpectedly revealed a remarkable hidden talent: the ancient art of commanding and organising large crowds — more commonly known in modern terminology as crowd control!

During the busiest periods, when large numbers of patients were waiting to be seen, these two demonstrated impressive organisational skills, guiding patients into orderly queues and ensuring that everyone waited patiently for their turn.

Susan recalled that at one particularly busy moment, she had to climb onto a chair, microphone in hand, to address the crowd.

Now, dear readers, please do not misunderstand! Susan was not standing on that chair to perform karaoke or showcase her singing talents. She was simply trying to make herself heard and maintain order at the medical centre!

Meanwhile, in the optometry section, Thuy was the team’s sole optometrist this year.

It was truly a one-woman mission, yet with admirable dedication and perseverance, she continued attending to patients one after another.

Although she had no fellow optometrist fighting alongside her, this courageous heroine held her ground throughout the mission!

The pharmacy team also performed exceptionally well. Despite a demanding workload, the pharmacists worked diligently and cooperatively, streamlining the dispensing process and reducing waiting times so that patients could receive their medicines and appropriate instructions as promptly as possible.

Each volunteer had a particular responsibility, and each professional team contributed its own expertise. Together, they formed the essential components of a well-coordinated humanitarian effort.

Poor in Wealth, Rich in Kindness

When asked about the moments that had left the deepest impression on her during the mission, Susan Huynh became emotional as she recalled two simple yet deeply touching encounters — memories that would remain close to her heart for years to come.

The first involved a young woman who accompanied her mother to the medical centre. The family had been given two consultation vouchers, but the young woman’s father was too unwell to attend.

Seeing her circumstances, Susan kindly offered her three bottles of medicated oil to take home for her family.

To Susan’s surprise, however, the young woman politely insisted on accepting only two bottles. She explained that she had only two consultation vouchers and therefore did not feel entitled to receive a third bottle.

Despite Susan’s repeated encouragement, the young woman remained reluctant. Only after considerable persuasion did she finally agree to accept the third bottle.

Susan thought little more of the encounter until the following morning, when the young woman returned to the medical centre.

She waited patiently and searched through the busy crowds until she finally found Susan. In her hands were two bottles of Red Bull, which she had brought as a small token of gratitude.

This time, it was Susan’s turn to hesitate, feeling reluctant to accept a gift from someone whose circumstances were already difficult.

But the young woman gently insisted, asking Susan to accept the drinks as a gesture of appreciation.

Susan was deeply moved.

The two bottles of Red Bull were modest gifts in monetary terms, yet they carried something far more precious: the young woman’s heartfelt gratitude, generosity and genuine kindness.

The second encounter involved a little girl of about ten years of age, a Year 4 primary school student.

One day, the girl suddenly ran up to Susan and exclaimed with innocent excitement:

“Aunty! You look just like a lady I’ve seen on TikTok!”

Susan could not help laughing, particularly as she did not even have a TikTok account!

Touched by the little girl’s innocence and cheerful personality, Susan offered her a 100,000 Vietnamese dong note to buy herself a refreshing passionfruit drink, even though the drink cost only 25,000 dong.

To Susan’s surprise, the girl politely refused to accept the full amount.

She explained that she only needed enough money to buy the drink and did not wish to take more than was necessary.

Such a simple response, yet one that could teach even the grown-ups a valuable lesson!

Later, the little girl returned to find Susan once again, this time for no other reason than to offer a heartfelt farewell:

“Aunty Susan, I wish you a safe journey back to Australia!”

Those innocent, sincere words touched Susan deeply.

Amid the long and demanding days of the medical mission, she had never expected to receive such precious gifts of the heart from people she had only just met.

These two encounters, though seemingly small, left a profound impression on Susan because they revealed something truly admirable about the people she met: their dignity, honesty, gratitude and generosity of spirit.

Despite living with considerable financial hardship, they retained a strong sense of self-respect and were reluctant to accept more than they genuinely needed.

And when kindness was extended to them, they sought to return it in whatever way they could — whether through a modest gift or a few sincere words of goodwill.

They may be poor in material wealth, but they are by no means poor in dignity, kindness or generosity of spirit.

Perhaps this is one of the most profound lessons of humanitarian work.

We travel to distant communities hoping to offer assistance and comfort to those less fortunate. Yet sometimes, it is the very people we have come to help who give us the most valuable lessons about dignity, gratitude and the beauty of human kindness.

For the true measure of a person lies not in what they possess, but in the kindness they show to others.

Achievements Worth Celebrating

Following three days of dedicated work, the AVCF medical mission achieved the following important outcomes:

DENTISTRY: 425 dental consultations and treatments, including the management of tooth decay, fillings and other necessary dental procedures. Each schoolchild received a gift package. This year, the children were also given winter jackets generously donated by patients of Dr Dung, providing some welcome warmth for the colder months ahead.

GENERAL MEDICINE: 804 medical consultations and health assessments, with 52 patients undergoing blood tests.

PHARMACY: 676 prescriptions dispensed to patients.

DIAGNOSTIC ULTRASOUND: 57 ultrasound examinations performed to assist with medical diagnosis.

AUDIOLOGY: 181 patients received hearing assessments, while 400 people were provided with hearing aid assistance.

OPTOMETRY: 137 eye examinations, together with health advice and the free distribution of prescription glasses, reading glasses and sunglasses to those in need.

PHYSIOTHERAPY: 61 patients received physiotherapy assessments and treatment. A number of walking sticks were also distributed to patients requiring mobility assistance.

GIFT DISTRIBUTION: 1,000 packages containing essential household necessities were distributed to disadvantaged families.

Behind these figures lie countless hours of hard work, personal sacrifice and the generosity of our volunteers.

More importantly, every number represents a person, a family, a personal struggle or a renewed sense of hope.

For those facing illness and financial hardship, even a medical consultation, a prescription, a pair of glasses or a modest gift can provide invaluable comfort, reassurance and encouragement.

V. Beyond the Medical Mission – The Sea, Yoga and Sweet Treats

After long and demanding days at the medical centre, the beach behind the Duy Tan Hotel became a favourite place for volunteers to relax and unwind.

In the late afternoon, many volunteers returned to the hotel, quickly changed into their swimming gear and headed straight into the pleasantly warm sea.

The gentle waves seemed to wash away the day’s fatigue, while laughter echoed across the beautiful coastal surroundings of Central Vietnam.

But if the afternoons belonged to the sea, the early mornings witnessed the emergence of an entirely different school of martial arts!

Yen Phuong, an experienced yoga practitioner, organised impromptu yoga sessions on the beach just as the first rays of sunlight appeared on the horizon.

With the soothing sound of the waves and the gentle sea breeze, participants practised stretching, breathing and relaxation exercises, preparing both body and mind for another busy day of service.

In the world of martial arts, legendary masters cultivate their inner energy through years of disciplined training.

At AVCF, however, Yen Phuong appeared to possess her own special form of inner-energy restoration, helping her fellow volunteers recharge their batteries before returning to their humanitarian duties!

A Night in Dong Hoi – The Great Sweet Dessert Expedition

On Thursday evening, 6 August, after completing the final day of clinical work, a group of volunteers decided to embark on a rather different adventure into the centre of Dong Hoi.

This time, their mission was not to examine patients, dispense medicines or perform heroic deeds.

Instead, their objective was to explore the delights of Vietnamese street food, particularly the irresistible traditional sweet dessert known as chè!

Dr Dung generously sponsored the coach transport, while Dr Peter Nguyen kindly treated everyone to the desserts.

One hero took responsibility for transport, while the other looked after refreshments — a truly admirable partnership between two distinguished gentlemen!

Throughout the journey, the coach was filled with cheerful conversations, jokes and infectious laughter. Everyone was having such a wonderful time that they almost forgot the way home.

Perhaps it is precisely these simple, spontaneous moments that become some of the most treasured memories of a charitable mission.

After all, happiness does not always have to be found in extraordinary places or grand achievements.

Sometimes, it can be as simple as a coach full of laughter, a delicious bowl of chè on a warm summer evening, and the company of friends united by a common purpose.

VI. Phong Nha and Paradise Cave – Marvels of Nature

On Friday, 7 August, following three days of dedicated humanitarian work, the volunteers had the opportunity to relax and explore some of the magnificent natural wonders of the historic Quang Binh region, particularly Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave.

Leaving behind the busy medical centre, the team entered an entirely different world — one of majestic mountains, mysterious caverns and extraordinary limestone formations sculpted by nature over millions of years.

Surrounded by such breathtaking scenery, one cannot help but feel humbled by the immensity and magnificence of the natural world.

Standing before these wonders, the everyday worries, frustrations and trivial rivalries of life suddenly seem insignificant, giving way to a sense of tranquillity and quiet reflection on the deeper meaning of our existence.

These caves are not merely geological wonders. They are magnificent works of art, patiently shaped by nature through the endless passage of time.

After days of selfless service to the community, the excursion provided a welcome opportunity for the volunteers to restore their energy, refresh their spirits and deepen their appreciation of the extraordinary beauty of Vietnam.

VII. The Farewell Gala – When Healthcare Heroes Become Singing Stars

On Friday evening, 7 August, AVCF hosted its farewell gala dinner in a warm and joyful atmosphere, tinged with the inevitable sadness of an approaching farewell.

It was an opportunity for everyone to gather once again, reflect on the achievements of the mission, share valuable experiences and acknowledge the dedication and contributions of their fellow volunteers.

And it was on this very evening that a fascinating discovery was made: the AVCF team was not only home to highly skilled healthcare professionals, but also to an astonishing number of hidden musical talents!

One by one, the evening’s performers took to the stage, delighting the audience with heartfelt renditions of well-loved songs.

Susan Huynh entertained everyone with the lively song “Ôi Tình Yêu (Oh Oh Oh)”, bringing energy and excitement to the celebration.

Hoang Do, having already demonstrated his exceptional crowd-management skills during the medical mission, surprised the audience once again with his performance of the classic Vietnamese song “Vạn Lý Sầu”.

Yen Phuong, already renowned for her yoga expertise, revealed yet another talent with her rendition of “Top of the World”, the much-loved classic made famous by The Carpenters.

Dr Anna Nguyen also contributed a special musical performance to the evening’s entertainment.

Dentist Nga Le captivated the audience with a touching rendition of “Biển Nhớ”, a nostalgic Vietnamese song evoking memories of the sea and love.

Mandy’s son also delighted the audience with a musical performance, adding further variety and enjoyment to the programme.

There were also several other talented performers within the AVCF ranks whose identities shall remain undisclosed.

Out of respect for these mysterious masters’ wishes to remain anonymous, the writer has decided not to reveal their names, allowing them to continue wandering peacefully through the martial arts world without attracting unnecessary fame!

These heartfelt performances certainly earned the participants the title of AVCF’s hidden singing stars.

Perhaps, after this mission, AVCF should seriously consider establishing an additional specialist division alongside medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and physiotherapy: the AVCF Martial Arts and Performing Arts Department!

Whether the notes were high or low, what truly mattered was the sincerity, friendship and shared joy that filled the room.

The farewell evening concluded with laughter, warm wishes and touching moments of friendship, as everyone prepared to go their separate ways.

VIII. Destined to Meet – Farewell Until We Meet Again

On Saturday, 8 August 2026, the volunteers officially bid farewell to Dong Hoi and began their journeys home to their families, workplaces and everyday lives in different parts of the world.

The AVCF team divided into two groups, each continuing along a different route.

One group travelled to Dong Hoi Airport to catch flights to other major cities before continuing to their respective destinations.

The second group travelled by coach back to the ancient imperial capital of Hue.

Along the way, they visited the historic 17th Parallel, a place deeply associated with the division of Vietnam and the painful chapters of the nation’s history, as well as the Our Lady of La Vang Pilgrimage Centre in Quang Tri.

These landmarks hold significant historical and cultural meaning, offering opportunities to reflect on war, peace, reconciliation, reunion and the enduring values of humanity.

A week had passed remarkably quickly, yet the friendships, shared experiences and meaningful connections formed during the mission would undoubtedly remain in everyone’s memories for years to come.

Compassion is not merely expressed through kind words or noble ideals. Its true meaning is revealed through practical actions arising from a sincere heart — actions that help ease suffering, relieve hardship and bring comfort to those in need.

Perhaps this is the greatest value of humanitarian medical missions such as ours: they provide opportunities to transform compassion into action and good intentions into meaningful contributions to the community.

Compassion knows no boundaries of nationality, ethnicity, language or background. Although the AVCF volunteers came from different corners of the world, they were united by one noble purpose: to devote their knowledge, skills and kindness to easing suffering and improving the lives of those less fortunate.

For volunteers of Vietnamese heritage, the mission also provided an opportunity to reconnect with their homeland and give something back to the communities they hold dear. For their international friends, it was an opportunity to share their compassion and contribute towards a better life for disadvantaged communities.

Despite their different nationalities, cultures and languages, they were united by a common spirit: compassion, mutual support and a shared commitment to serving humanity.

For the volunteers of AVCF, this mission was far more than a charitable undertaking. It was a journey of humanity, generosity, gratitude, friendship and meaningful connections.

IX. A Heartfelt Expression of Gratitude

The Australian Vietnamese Charity Foundation extends its sincere and heartfelt appreciation to the local authorities, healthcare organisations and all individuals who provided invaluable assistance and support throughout our medical mission in Phong Nha Commune.

We wish to express our particular gratitude to Mr Bui Duc Ngoan, Chairman of Hop Nhat International Company, for his generous sponsorship of the coach transport from Hue to Dong Hoi.

We also extend our warm thanks to Nguyen Khang and Kim Hoang of Viet TV Australia for taking the time to visit, document and report on the team’s humanitarian activities.

AVCF sincerely thanks all the patients, schoolchildren and disadvantaged residents who attended the medical centre and gave us the privilege and opportunity to serve them.

Above all, we express our deepest gratitude to every volunteer, regardless of nationality or background, who travelled long distances, endured challenging weather conditions, personally covered their own travel and accommodation expenses, and generously contributed their time, professional expertise and energy towards the success of this humanitarian mission.

Your presence, dedication and contributions have been a tremendous honour and source of inspiration to AVCF.

May the seeds of compassion planted during this journey continue to grow, flourish and bear the fruits of kindness, solidarity and humanity.

Though separated by great distances, those destined to meet will find one another.

And so, as we return to our different corners of the world, we look forward to the day when we shall gather once again, united by our shared commitment to serving humanity.

With heartfelt gratitude, farewell — until we meet again!Australian Vietnamese Charity Foundation (AVCF)
August 2026