What a wonderful story Helen and Ross Whittaker have to tell of their recent participation in a BlazeAid camp in Corryong.
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They say it was an experience they will never forget and are looking forward to being involved again when possible.
BlazeAid is a totally volunteer based organisation that works with families and individuals in rural Australia after natural disasters such as fire and floods.
Working alongside the rural families, the volunteers help to rebuild fences and other structures that have been damaged or destroyed.
Equally important, volunteers also help to lift the spirits of people who are often facing their second or third flood event and after the devastating losses through bushfires.
BlazeAid volunteers work in a disaster affected area for many months, not only helping individuals and families, but also helping rebuild the local communities by ensuring most of their needs are purchased in the local area.
Helen and Ross went to assist farmers at Corryong at Helen’s insistence and they both declared they benefited more from the experience than those they helped.
Anyone can become involved in the work done by BlazeAid with age or gender no barrier.
One of the many wonderful personalities Helen and Ross met was an 82 year-old lady who worked alongside the younger members with no trouble at all.
Being the community minded people they are, Helen and Ross soon made friends with others involved in that particular project including a special character named Charlie.
If possible, volunteers are asked to bring their own caravan or similar camping equipment; however, the is some limited accommodation as mobile huts are erected at the location for those who need accommodation.
Meals are provided with volunteers taking turns doing kitchen duty.
Helen and Ross enjoyed their turn in the kitchen but this didn’t exempt Helen from going out into the fields to also assist with fencing.
Lions Clubs originally assisted with kitchen duty before COVID-19 came on the scene and volunteers are currently limited to twenty in the camp.
The couple were extremely touched with the response from those farmers in need of assistance.
Ross explained it was not only the physical help given but the mental health/first aid benefits as some farmers were so traumatized by the events in January they just did not know where to start.
BlazeAid assists them in getting their business and lives back together.
Very few understand just how bad conditions are in these fire affected regions and that the struggle is still very real.
Helen and Ross would like to see others who may have some time to give to this great organisation and would love to have a team of locals to take with them next time.
They are most interesting to listen to and would be happy to hear from any interested parties on Ross’s mobile 0419 649 508.
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It's nice to have something positive to look forward to in these current difficult times.
Members of Finley Golf Club are beginning to get excited about making plans to celebrate 100 years of presence in the community.
This will occur next year with celebrations expected to take part the weekend of October 9/10 2021 and the organisers ask that this date be kept in mind for the future.
The Finley Golf Club has played a very important part in the structure of the town.
It is intended to compile a book of the history and happenings of the club over the past 100 years and the organisers are asking for help from the community.
The year of introduction is known; however, not the actual date or month.
If there is anyone who could clear up this matter, it would be appreciated if they could call the clubhouse on (03) 5883 1360.
It is also hoped that stories and photos of members past can be included so if there is anyone out there who can supply details of themselves or relatives it would be greatly appreciated.
Memorability of any kind would also be a great help.
So now is the time to go through you grandma or grandfather’s old shed or cupboard and see what they have put away over the years.
It is expected that a full display will be available at the club over that weekend and all are welcome to come along and take part.
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Last Saturday’s winner of the Finley Lions Club wood raffle is Joyce Brain. Well done, Joycie.
The members of this organisation do a great job raising funds to assist so many local charities; even to the extent of sitting in the cold each Saturday morning to sell tickets.
They are a great crew and it is interesting just to have a chat while buying a ticket.
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Another great charity organisation in our community is the Shabby to Chic shop run by the Finley Rotary Club and their great band of volunteers.
They are always grateful for donations of clothing and items for sale.
Once again, all funds raised are used to assist those in need.
Recently, an item of value was found among a delivery to the shop and the organisers are anxious to find the owner.
If you have donated products recently and are aware of what this item of value is, you can contact Frances on 0412 772 572 or call into the shop with a description.
Shop opening hours are Monday to Friday from 10am until 3.30pm.
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No doubt enthusiastic dancers will be delighted to hear that the weekly practice sessions held at Retreat Hall can now resume.
Practice begins at 7.30pm each Monday night and continues until 10pm.
Social distancing and COVID-19 safety precautions will be in place. New members are most welcome.
Further information can be obtained by calling 0447 007 280.
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There will be a COVID-19 testing van visiting Finley this Thursday July 16.
It will be operating from 12.30 to 2.30 and will be situated at the east end of Pinnuck Street.
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Items for ‘From Finley’ may be submitted by phoning 0428 293 922 or email anne.freestone@bigpond.com or left at the Southern Riverina News office. Please include a contact name and phone number.