THE South East’s agricultural community has banded together to support two charities with personal links to their own.
A highlight of Wednesday’s Mount Gambier Saleyards yarding was the sale of two cows with proceeds donated to the Fight MND Foundation.
The idea sparked by Montanna Millard whose grandmother Betty Pannell was affected by the debilitating disease, sharing a personal connection with the event.
Ms Pannell was a farmer, with Ms Millard’s extended family following in her footsteps.
“I was very close with my Nan and it was very generous for the Norman and the Perryman families to donate the two cows,” Ms Millard said.
“There is obviously no cure for MND so the more money raised, the more chance we can find a cure.
“It was great to see everyone support a great cause, I hope we can make a difference for other families that have been through similar situations.”
More than $3000 dollars was raised from the event with one cow weighing 400kg selling for $3.5 a kilo and the large heifer weighing 450kg selling for $3.62 a kilo.
Half of the money raised for the Perryman family’s heifer will be donated to the Fred Hollows Foundation supporting another charity that has helped many South East residents.
“This sits very close to our heart with Betty being part of our bowling club,” Kevin Norman said.
“I spoke out to young disabled residents within the South East community and I would not have been able to do that without Betty.
“She loved her sport and farming and has gone far too soon, I hope Betty is resting peacefully.”
Complementing the cattle sale, a table was also auctioned off for the Daniher’s Drive MND gala comedy and auction dinner held tonight at The Barn, with all stock agents chipping in for the cause.
“Seven combined stock agents paid $2100 dollars for the table,” Elders Mount Gambier stock agent David Creek said.
“We will have at least one representative from each company on the table with three agencies lucky enough to have two representatives.”
“Scan Clear owner Brandon Cary proudly donated the table and asked us to auction it at the yards with all proceeds to go towards the Daniher’s Drive.
“Brandon went to school with Neale, he himself was not only a great footballer but has shown true dedication to the cause.”
“We all have been fully behind the fundraiser, it is a great charity that raises awareness for such a terrible thing.”
Daniher’s Drive is the second biggest fundraiser for the Fight MND Foundation led by inspirational football identity Neale Daniher.
The 370-person contingent will tour through Mount Gambier as part of a 1068km round-trip from Melbourne, raising funds and awareness for Motor Neurone Disease.
The Port MacDonnell Bowling Club – which Mr Norman attends – also raised funds for the comedy and gala night.
