News

Racing night raises vital funds for Cancer patients

25th May, 2011

The Ararat Harness Racing Club in conjunction with East Grampians Health Service held a fund raising night on Wednesday 23th March at the trotting club to raise money for cancer suffers in our region.

Each race had naming rights for sale, which was well supported by the local community. A dinner was also available on the night supported and catered by Deb's Diner. A large plasma TV was raffled on the night which was proudly donated by Ararat Harness Racing Club.

President of Ararat Harness Racing Club, Mr. Bob Collins said, that "It was agreed that we should try and help out the hospital's Oncology Unit to raise enough money, in order to purchase a reclining chair for the comfort of Oncology patients whilst receiving treatment. The night was such a success, that not only did we raise enough money for one reclining chair, but enough for two. This was a great result from the night with the total amount of $4,116.00 being raised.

Mr. Collins said, "I would like to thank the following people for purchasing the naming rights to each race on the night and they are as follows: Mick & Kathy McGrath, Jennifer & Arthur Spiller, Chris & Bob Collins, Karen & Trevor Preston, Abbey & Amber Bligh, Lynore & Michael Bond."

Mr. Collins also commented, "that he would like to make special mention of the caterer's from Deb's Diner and the organising committee of Phil Ralph, Bill Allgood, Leonie Tellefson, Robert Haughton and Cheryl Haines. The Ararat Harness Racing Club was absolutely delighted with the nights success and on that basis, are happy to announce that we will be doing it again next year.  If what the club has done has made it any easier for those in need, we feel happy in our efforts and would like to thanks all those who attended on the night."

Manager of Inpatient Unit of East Grampians Health Service, Ms Lorine Patterson said, "we appreciate the support, that the Ararat Harness Racing Club has given to East Grampians Health Service and in particular, their recent fundraising effort for the Oncology Unit.The funds raised have allowed us to purchase two reclining armchairs, that will not only ensure that our patients are comfortable while undergoing treatment, but will also assist us to treat patients in a timely manner, thank you."