Community digs deep

KOROIT and surrounding towns showed their support for fire-affected communities and dug deep during a special event last weekend.

Community spirit has once again shone bright, with last weekend’s ‘Koroit Cares’ fire relief fundraiser reaching almost $3,000 in donations. Pictured among the crowd at Saturday’s event were Hawkesdale College principal John Ralph and teacher Megan Russell with event organiser, Aden Gilding. Photos courtesy Mary Bruce Photography

The ‘Koroit Cares’ event, the brainchild of local teenager Aden Gilding, saw a crowd of more than 100 people gather at the Koroit Stables on Saturday for a fun-filled day.

“I was absolutely thrilled with the number of people who turned out, especially given there were so many other events on around the district,” Aden said.

“We raised just over $1400 on the day and then I received a phone call on Wednesday morning from the Lions Club of Koroit to say they wanted to donate $1500 so that was amazing.

“I’m so very grateful and appreciative of all those who came on Saturday, to the many volunteers who helped and continue to do so, and to the Lions members and all others who donated so generously.”

The almost $3,000 has been donated evenly between Need for Feed and Blaze Aid.

“Last Saturday was a great day for the entire community,” Aden said.

“We had live music, a sausage sizzle and bar and lots of games for the kids which were very popular.

“It was all about showing support for families and local areas impacted by the fires. It was also an opportunity to acknowledge and thank the many firefighters, emergency services workers and volunteers who worked tirelessly to protect lives, homes and property.”