Truck convoy rolls into the city

COMMUNITY EVENT: Mount Gambier resident Adam Smith and his children Austin and Jaimee get ready for the truck convoy and show which will take place this Saturday to raise money for ac.care.
COMMUNITY EVENT: Mount Gambier resident Adam Smith and his children Austin and Jaimee get ready for the truck convoy and show which will take place this Saturday to raise money for ac.care.

AROUND 100 trucks decorated in tinsel will make their way to Mount Gambier this weekend as part of a convoy to raise money for local families in need.

Travelling from Penola, the truck drivers, who will come from as far away as Melbourne and Adelaide will share in the Christmas spirit by donating money and toys to ac.care.

Organiser Adam Smith said the event, which is only in its second year, was initially inspired by his daughter Jaimee and her desire to help those less fortunate.

“Jaimee’s best friend’s mum works at ac.care, so that’s why she wanted to do something to help other people,” he said.

“Last year was really successful and we raised thousands of dollars in only a matter of days and this year it has really taken off again.”

Growing on last year’s event, Mr Smith said they had introduced a truck show which will begin after the convoy at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds.

“Our main aim will give people that do it hard something fun to enjoy,” he said.

“It will be chock-a-block with a display or trucks and cars, activities for kids, including a jumping castle and mini-golf and a visit from George the Farmer.”

Grateful for the generosity of the local community, Mr Smith said he was overwhelmed with the support received.

“A lot more people are taking part this year and they are all donating some money, it’s unreal,” he said.

“As soon as they know it is for the kids they want to get involved.”

The truck convoy will leave Penola around 8.30am with an aim to arrive at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds at 9.30am.

Gates at the showgrounds will open at 10am with a gold coin donation for entry.