THE Lions Club of Port MacDonnell and District has generously donated funds to two of the city’s major organisations thanks to an open garden fundraiser held earlier this year.
Opening up the Kongorong-based Aberfoyle Gardens to the public, members ran a raffle and sold afternoon tea to attendees in order to raise funds for Boandik and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
Raising a total of $3000, funds were split between the two organisations to purchase necessary equipment to in turn help the community.
“We have run the open garden for many years now and have always given the funds to Boandik and the Royal Flying Doctor Service,” club president Brian Collins OAM said.
“They both do so much for our community.”
Thankful for the continued support of the club, Boandik chief executive officer Gillian McGinty said any donations were gratefully accepted.
“There are always pieces of equipment that we are accumulating money to purchase,” she said.
“This money will go towards a mobility aid for people who are rehabilitating from an acute episode.
“The equipment is really important to maintain their independence.”
Also showing his gratitude to the committed club members, Royal Flying Doctor Service committee member Ian Berry said the funds will go a long way in supporting flights to and from Mount Gambier.
“The Federal Government purchases the aircraft, but the service has to fit them out as medical aircraft,” he said.
“There is a new aircraft – a jet – that will cut down the travel time to Adelaide dramatically that we need to purchase equipment for.
“The other aircraft are also getting older so we often have to upgrade equipment for them as well.”
Committed to supporting the organisations for many more years, Mr Collins said they are both valuable in the community.
“You never know when you will need them so we have to ensure they are supported,” he said.
“We are very lucky to have both organisations here.”
