Volunteers out in force

Wimmera Country Fire Authority volunteers will take to the streets on Friday to raise money for the annual Royal Children’s Hospital appeal.

Volunteers from Horsham, Vectis, Jung and Dooen brigades will rattle tins throughout Horsham in a return to traditional fundraising activities.

Last year, the region’s fire stations went into lockdown ahead of Easter, as the government put measures in place to try to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Horsham brigade member Ray Carman said he was thrilled to be able to collect donations in person again, rather than having a solely online appeal.

“We are rattling tins again this year, although it will be on a limited basis,” he said.

“The fire trucks will still be doing the rounds, but on a smaller scale, because only firefighters are allowed on the trucks and we can’t get the numbers. The fire station will also be open for people who want to come down and give a donation.”

Volunteers will rattle tins at traffic lights, collecting money on the corner of Firebrace and Wilson streets, Dimboola and Wawunna roads and Mcpherson and Baillie streets.

Mr Carman said he loved being involved in the appeal and missed the opportunity to participate last year.

“It was the first time in 29 years I couldn’t do it – it’s 30 years for me this year,” he said.

“I had both my kids down at the Royal Children’s. After my first went down, that’s when I got involved with the appeal.

“It’s a fantastic joint. The staff down there, the nurses, they’ve got a different attitude to a lot of other nurses. They’re just so friendly and caring.”

Ararat Fire Brigade volunteers will also be out in force as they look to reach a major milestone.

The brigade has led the charge for the Good Friday Appeal in the region since 1970 and needs to raise just under $4000 to reach $1-million.

Volunteers will man traffic lights tomorrow night and Friday and there are donation tins throughout the rural city.

The Good Friday Appeal raises money to enable the children’s hospital to continue providing ‘world-class care’.

More than $381-million has been raised since 1931, with money going towards research, equipment and patient and family-centred programs, along with education programs, fellowships and scholarships for staff.

People can also donate online at goodfridayappeal.com.au.

ACE Radio will broadcast from the Royal Children’s Hospital on MIXX FM on Friday from 10am to 2pm.