Gala funding pledge
An Ararat foundation dedicated to providing financial support for East Grampians Health Service has pledged to help raise $200,000 for a new x-ray machine for the service’s medical imaging department.
Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation Ararat branch made the commitment during a presentation at its 18th annual Gala Night.
Branch president Terry Weeks joined officials at Ararat Town Hall on Friday night to hand over an $80,000 cheque
to health service chief executive Andrew Freeman to start fund-raising efforts.
Mr Weeks also announced that as part of a forthcoming $3.9-million refurbishment of the medical imaging department and pathology, together with the linking to an urgent care centre, an area of the development would be named the Blue Ribbon Wing to recognise the significant contribution of the foundation and the Ararat branch.
The gala night, which raises money for the health service money-raiser while paying tribute to Victoria Police members, was again a success with 280 guests helping raise more than $30,000 on the night.
Of the money raised during the evening, a main auction led by guest Melbourne auctioneer Phil de Fegely raised a record $23,000.
The Ararat branch, since it formed in 2002, has raised more than $900,000 for the health service, much of it donated specifically on the medical imaging department.
Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation board member Darryl Nation congratulated Ararat branch members and acknowledged East Grampians Health Service for its partnership with the foundation, and importantly the Ararat Branch and the community.
Following official proceedings, Victoria Police Area Commander Superintendent Paul Margetts joined board member Paul Moore and guests to stand for a minute’s silence to honour the memory of police officers killed in the line of duty.
District musician Dave Nicholson started the entertainment before Tim Campbell and his band launched into high-energy dance music. Ararat district band The Double Agents finished the night.