Uncle Bob’s Club thank supporters

The tireless work to raise money for the needy children in Victoria locally was recognised with a special visit from Uncle Bob’s Club state president Paul Etherington recently.

Six years ago the local West Gippsland branch of Uncle Bob’s Club were left with nowhere to count money raised through its Good Friday appeal.

While usually closed for the public holiday, a local bank branch opened its doors to allow local Uncle Bob’s Club volunteers count the money.

The club also used the visit to thank the owner of a local chocolate shop for her donations towards the club’s raffle basket.

Fundraising efforts have exceeded $35,000 over that six year period.

“Six years ago we were in a real pickle,” Mr Etherington said. “Fortunately Westpac said yes. “We have sincere appreciation for what you do for the West Gippsland branch.

“Not only do we support the Royal Children’s Hospital, but we also support West Gippsland Hospital and Monash children’s.”

In December of 1941, a raffle book was passed around the Riversdale Hotel in Hawthorn. The money raised would be donated to the Children’s Hospital to benefit their orthopaedic section.

Four men at the bar that night were so moved, they decided to form a group to raise money for the Children’s Hospital, year-round. The membership fee would be a shilling (a “bob”) a week – and in January of 1942, Uncle Bobs Club began.

Over the years, the club has expanded – forming groups in regional Victoria, allowing its mission to support children’s health to reach beyond The Royal Children’s Hospital, and into local communities.

Uncle Bob’s Club made a presentation of appreciation to the Westpac bank, Warragul for its support of the Good Friday appeal. Pictured back row from left Julie Peck, Pip Stubbs, Kirsty Brooks, branch manager Michaela Ranton, Uncle Bob’s Club state president Paul Etherington, Uncle Bob’s Club member George Gleeson, front row Uncle Bob’s Club member Kevin Potter, bank staff member Duy Vo, Uncle Bob’s Club member Karen Lindorff, bank staff members Krystie Scott and Julie Slattery.