Blue fundraiser with big hopes

SEVERAL southern schools have been decked out in blue for the launch of annual Homely Retreats Day.

The idea for a yearly fundraiser emerged when Homely Retreats founder Jay Chipman visited her former school, Bayview Secondary College, late last year to talk about her charity.

Ms Chipman, who founded Homely Retreats after her battle with breast cancer, said the kids were so inspired by her work organising free weekends away for cancer patients and their families they decided to launch the August 26 blue event.

She said a bus-load of Bayview Secondary College students visited South Arm Primary, Clarendon Vale Primary, Lauderdale Primary and Rokeby Primary on the day to judge the best-dressed students and educate them on the importance of community.

“Ninety-eight per cent of students at every school were dressed in blue, I was very impressed,” she said.

She said the day’s efforts raised more than $1800.

“We tried to count up the money while we were at the schools to show them how much they raised,” Ms Chipman said.

“It was very overwhelming, I could have easily cried.”

Bayview Secondary College Year 8 co-ordinator Peter Goward said he felt proud to see the crazycostumed kids come together for families in need.

“It shows even in Grade 1 they can do something to help someone, you don’t have to wait until you’re an adult,” he said.

To donate, offer your home for a weekend or join in the blue dress-up fundraiser, visit homelyretreats.com.au annie.mccann@news.com.au