FESTIVE cheer spread through Hallmont Estate when the retirement facility hosted an end of year Christmas concert and carols night.
Raising more than $750, Hallmont Estate resident committee member Colleen Connell was proud to present the money to charity.
“$766 was raised by the Christmas concert and the committee increased it to $1000,” Ms Connell said.
“The money was raised by just asking people to come along and contribute their time.
“We selected the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) for the donation as so many of the residents and community members utilise the service.”
Mount Gambier Royal Flying Doctor Service support group president Bill Russon was thankful for the donation.
“All the donations go towards the infrastructure and the fitting out of the planes,” he said.
“We fit the planes out so they are equipped for all medical emergencies.
“We are thrilled about the efforts people put in and it is a wonderful contribution.”
Mr Russon said all donations to the organisation, no matter the amount, were important.
“They all add up,” he said.
“The concert is one of many ways how funds are raised for us.
“You can imagine 140 people having a bit of fun with the ultimate thought that at the end of the day they are raising funds for the RFDS.”
The concert involved a range of South East performers from across the Limestone Coast, including Hallmont Estate line dancers, local musician Jordanna Jones, pianist Aimee Black, Alluring Gem belly-dancing school, dancers from Maryke Dance Adademy, young musician Gabriel Strachan, MJ Dance student Ryan Thompson, the Hallmont Estate choir and Hype Dance Studio performer Paris Ackland.
All attendees paid a $5 dollar entry fee.
“All the performers had a great attitude and received a certificate from us to acknowledge their work,” Ms Connell said.
“The room was full, which was great to see and you could see how much the residents enjoyed it.
“It gives them a chance to come together and have fun, they love to get out and give back.
“We had lots of follow-up phone calls and emails saying they had a great night.”
Ms Connell hoped the concert would continue for years to come and Mr Russon looked forward to future involvement with Hallmont Estate.
“It is the community spirit you get in places like this that work together to help the community,” Mr Russon said.
“We sincerely thank everyone for their efforts.”
