Cottage Fair raises $70,000

COTTAGE by the Sea’s annual fair fundraiser has raised a whopping $70,000 to help the Queenscliff-based charity support and enhance the lives of children in the community.

Since 1890, Cottage by the Sea has set out to provide short-term care within a holiday environment for children in need, including those affected by fire, flood, war and those disadvantaged in key life areas.

The annual fair, which took place on Saturday, attracted more than 2,000 visitors who donated and enjoyed the festivities which included a range of food and drinks stalls.

Cottage by the Sea Head of Strategic Partnerships and Fair organiser Bill Kerr said money raised on Saturday would assist more children to take part in their programs.

“The fair was absolutely great, we raised just on $70,000 and to get back into it after three years was terrific,” he said.

“The funds will directly support our Take a Break program, which targets children, youth and adolescent mental health.

“We are seeing an increased demand for kids to use the program and the funds will assist a couple more hundred to come through.

“We will have some brand-new opportunities for the kids that will hopefully be fun and inspire them.

“It all adds up and makes a great jigsaw puzzle to enable each kid to come here and have a good time.”

Kerr said the event’s success was in part thanks to the huge community effort from both volunteers and the wider public who attended and donated on the day.

“To get some old people into the venue to see the renovated and new space and how it can now impact more people’s lives was really special,” Kerr said.

“People had a chance to walk around and have a tour and buy some fruit, veggies and scones.

“The event was really well received and the 2,000 or so attendees were happy to come along and enjoy the day which is a great result.

“It was fantastic to have the Cottage on show in all its glory.”