Town turns out for pink fundraiser
WELLINGTON Bowling Club became a sea of pink on Sunday, October 24, as guests gathered to support the Mcgrath Foundation fundraiser.
Club secretary Brodie Driscoll said the day was inspired by her aunty and president Anne Mckay who has breast cancer. It was put together with the support of Anne and her daughter Naomi, along with staff and board members.
The fundraiser featured an allday Pink Ride around the district with about 70 cars and riders.
“Anyone could come on the bike ride and we went to Narromine then the Armatree Hotel for lunch, then Gilgandra, Mendooran and Dunedoo,” Brodie explained.
“Some people also went to Gulgong. It was a big day.”
But the day was about to get bigger as the travellers returned to entertainment, raffles and food back at the club and about 80 more people who had turned out to show their support.
“It was a bit overwhelming; it blew me away. It was a lot bigger than I expected.”
Brodie said a group of musicians gave their time to perform country and traditional tunes, while the Honey House Chinese restaurant had plenty of patrons.
The event raised almost $3000 which was matched by a donation from the management and patrons of the Lion of Waterloo Tavern, who raised $4000 for the cause.
“They have been holding raffles and putting money aside since she was diagnosed,” Brodie said.
Once donation tins around the clubhouse have been counted, it is expected to boost that figure even more.
“We have been having a men’s bowls, ladies bowls, croquet, pool and darts challenge so we expect there will be more than $7000 by the end of the month.”
Brodie said the fundraiser well surpassed the ambition of organisers.
“We set a $1000 goal and threw it together last week with no real marketing. It was all word of mouth. We are grateful for the support of local businesses who donated prizes and vouchers. Nearly everything was local, with some Dubbo businesses as well.
“It was a good night. It’s a great foundation and we plan to make it an annual event.
“With more planning, I don’t know what the place would look like!”