Fundraiser set to boost club’s coffers

A Piako sports club which has faced real challenges in recent years is to benefit from an event which already gives back to the community.

Proceeds from a major raffle, drawn at the December 11 farmers’ market in Waihou, will go to Te Aroha Athletics Club.

Piako resident Andrew Matijasevich established the market a year ago to support the Waihou-based Te Aroha & Districts Riding for the Disabled group.

Held in the Waihou Tavern carpark, the monthly market now regularly attracts up to 40 stalls, he said.

The December raffle boasts a $1200 travel prize courtesy of House of Travel Morrinsville, Matamata, Hamilton City, Cambridge, Te Awamutu and Taupo, supported by Diprose Miler and Waihou Tavern.

Four other prizes have also been donated for the raffle, with tickets on sale via Te Aroha Athletics Club and Andrew Matijasevich.

Matijasevich said it has been a ‘‘pretty tough’’ few years for the athletics club.

In September 2013 the club headquarters at Herries Park was destroyed by fire, believed to have been deliberately lit.

A rebuild saw a new pavilion opened on the same site in July 2014.

However, these premises have been a target for burglars and vandals this year.

In July, river stones from a nearby path were reportedly used to smash windows and lights in the clubrooms.

The following month saw equipment including a public address system and starting pistols taken in a burglary at the premises.

Andrew Matijasevich said he set up the farmers’ market to ‘‘do something’’ for the Waihou community and opted for the RDA because it is ‘‘so deserving’’.

‘‘I have known about it for years,’’ he said. ‘‘It’s such a good cause.’’

Neighbours Helen and John Gill, along with Waihou local Nerina Chapman, have been assisting him in the venture.

The December market day will also include a display of classic cars and hot rods, carol singers and a visit from Santa.

Markets are held in the Waihou Tavern carpark on the second Sunday of every month, 9.30am-1.30pm.

The travel raffle will be drawn at the December 11 market.