The Tocumwal War Memorial Hall was bursting at the seams last Thursday as locals turned out in force for the Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea, hosted by the Tocumwal Combined Op Shops.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
Despite the cool and wet weather, the event drew a capacity crowd, raising vital funds and awareness for cancer research and support services.
Guests enjoyed a delicious spread of home made cakes, slices, sandwiches, sausage rolls and quiches — all prepared by volunteers and served for just $15 a head.
Entertainment was provided by the ever-popular Ukeladies and Marg Murphy’s energetic line dancers, who kept everyone entertained with their feet tapping.
Organisers extended their thanks to the performers for donating their time and talent.
One of the highlights of the morning was the continuous raffle, which featured a wide range of generously donated prizes and vouchers from local businesses.
The lucky door prize, a handcrafted bird feeder donated by Rob Hamilton of Wood ’n That, was gratefully received by a delighted young attendee.
Green thumbs also had plenty to smile about, thanks to Julie Stava’s impressive plant stall, which featured potted plants, annuals, herbs, bulbs, fruits, and home made jams.
The stall alone raised more than $1000, contributing significantly to the day’s fundraising total.
The event was made possible through the combined efforts of the combined Hunters Haven and Tocumwal Community Op Shops, whose volunteers worked tirelessly behind the scenes to get this event to such a high standard.
Organisers expressed deep gratitude to all helpers and donors for their contributions in making the morning such a memorable and successful one.
Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea is a nationwide Cancer Council initiative that invites communities to gather, share a cuppa, and raise funds to support cancer patients and their families.
The Tocumwal community’s generous turnout exemplifies the power of local action in the fight against cancer.
The tally at the time of going to print yesterday was $4500.
•••
An incredible achievement has been celebrated by Lions Clubs across Australia, with the Australian Chapter of the Lions Club International Stamp Club raising an impressive $35,000 from over 200kg of stamps in the past year for the Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation.
These vital funds will go directly towards providing mobility devices for children.
The Tocumwal community has played a role in this achievement, contributing through local stamp donations collected and sent off throughout the year.
The Lions Club continues to call on the community to keep the momentum going. They are still collecting used postage stamps, old glasses and hearing aids.
These items can be dropped into the blue collection bin at Tocumwal IGA. To assist with processing, stamp donors are asked to trim the paper around the stamp to within 3mm.
Collected reading glasses and hearing aids are refurbished and distributed to individuals in need both in Australia and around the world, giving them a second life and offering the gift of sight and sound to those who need it most.
Since the stamp project began in 2004, nearly $400,000 has been raised for the foundation.
•••
Last week, Tocumwal Public School’s senior netball team hit the court in the NSWPSSA Riverina Netball Knockout Competition, facing off against Barooga Public School.
The girls delivered a stellar performance, showcasing sharp drives and impressive intercepts, and came away with a dominant 38-3 victory.
After the senior match, their junior team (Years 3 and 4) took part in a friendly and enjoyable game against Barooga’s junior squad. It was a fantastic chance for the younger players to gain valuable experience and have some fun on the court.
A big thank you to Barooga Public School for travelling to Tocumwal and contributing to a great day of netball.
The school also appreciates the support from students and teachers, Taylah for her umpiring, and Mrs Saraikin for her dedicated coaching.
•••
Congratulations to Greg Bubner on winning the hamper raffled by the Lions Club last Saturday. The hamper was donated by IGA.
Thank you to the community for the generous support of the street stall.
Proceeds from the sales and raffle will support the Railway Heritage Museum.
The museum is open every Saturday from 10am until 3pm. Entry fees are $5 per adult, and children are free.
•••
A reminder that the Finley CWCI Committee is extending a warm invitation to women across the region to attend its upcoming inspirational events focused on decluttering both the heart and home.
The events, featuring guest speaker Bec Lanham, will offer an opportunity for women to come together, reflect and find encouragement in a supportive environment.
Attendees can choose between two sessions - a supper evening from 7.30pm on Thursday, May 29 at the Finley Presbyterian Church Hall (17 Denison Street, Finley), or a morning tea at 10am on Friday, May 30 at the Deniliquin Uniting Church Hall (346 Poictiers St, Deniliquin).
The cost is $10 per person, with light refreshments provided. Organisers note that childminding will not be available for either event.
For more information or to reserve a spot, contact Susan on 0467 333 002 or Helen on 0419 902 084.
•••
If you have something of interest for inclusion in the ‘Tocumwal Tells’ column, including the celebration of any special events, send an email to leonie.smith1725@gmail.com or call on 0432 261 296.
Columnist