Cottage fundraiser a success

COMMUNITY donations totalling more than $70,000 at Cottage by the Sea’s annual race day will help the charity continue to provide growth opportunities for disadvantaged children and their families.

Strategic Partnerships Manager at Cottage by the Sea Bill Kerr said Thursday’s event at Geelong Racing Club, which raised $72,415, was a great community effort.

“We are super proud of how the day panned out and the amazing response that we got from the 250 guests in attendance,” Mr Kerr said.

“To finally run the event after the last few years of interruptions was fantastic and it was certainly an event that everyone supported in a massive way which we are truly grateful for.”

The children’s charity relies on the generosity of the community rather than government funding to run a range of programs for children, encouraging them to have fun, take risks and explore career and lifestyle options in a safe and supportive environment.

Mr Kerr said money raised at the race day would go towards facility redevelopment.

“The huge $72,415 that we received through raffle prizes, auctions and donations will go towards redeveloping our Riptide cottage facility which needs a major rehaul,” he said.

“The rebuild will hopefully house 24 people, up from the previous number of 12, and will be fit for people of all-abilities, therefore allowing us to increase our offering to the community.

“We can’t thank everyone enough for their support at the fundraiser and over the years.”

For more about Cottage by the Sea, head to www.cottagebythesea.com.au/