BEST EFFORT YET: The Tin Shed raise $81,150 for GFA

THE Tin Shed at Barwon Heads is celebrating their most successful Good Friday Appeal fundraiser yet, raising more than $81,150 to assist children and their families undertaking treatment at the Royal Children’s Hospital.

Regional Victoria dug deep into its pockets to raise more than $4 million in this year’s Good Friday Appeal, which contributed to a new single-day record of $23,061,320 in fundraising across the state.

The Tin Shed event organisers said they were hopeful of eclipsing last year’s $61,465 total, however were blown away by the exceptional support of locals and businesses who donated gifts, cheques and their immeasurable time and effort towards the 2023 appeal.

“It means a lot to all of us… we are all touched by people going through the hospital and it’s a common cause that galvanizes the community,” The Tin Shed secretary Ian Perrett said.

“Many of us are parents and grandparents of children who have been at the hospital and there are many local children who have been through it as well.

“The day started off with the father of one local tell his story of his child who has had four open heart surgeries…. it brought a tear to everyone’s eye and really kicked off the event and fundraising.

“It’s a worthy and universal cause…. we were thrilled with the amazing feed in from the community… to be in the top ten on the country leaderboard was also a big surprise and great result.”

Chairman of the Good Friday Appeal Penny Fowler said the record-breaking total was a testament to Victorians’ ability to come together for a common objective.

“Giving for the kids is what the Good Friday Appeal is all about and what big, generous hearts Victorians have had this year,” Ms Fowler said.

“The Appeal continues to shine a light on the very best in our community and this year’s Appeal is no exception.

“We are incredibly grateful to communities in Victoria and all the volunteers for digging deep for The Royal Children’s Hospital.

“Thank you to both the Federal and State Governments for the generous contributions to the Appeal to ensure it remains a world-class facility helping sick children and their families.”

Barwon Heads finished ninth in the regional community tally for Good Friday raising $82,357.

To donate to the Good Friday Appeal, go to www.fundraise.goodfridayappeal.com.au