Queenscliff charity to host annual fair

QUEENSCLIFF children’s charity Cottage by the Sea will host its annual fair next weekend, continuing a fundraising tradition that dates back more than a century.

The January 10 event is the organisation’s longest-running fundraiser, with records of the fair dating to 1910.

This year’s event will feature a range of stallholders selling fresh produce, plants, clothing and second-hand books. All funds raised support Cottage’s programs for vulnerable children.

Long-time supporters, the Harvey family and Harvey’s of Highton, will again donate the fresh fruit and vegetables for sale, continuing a partnership of more than 20 years.

Cottage by the Sea chief executive, Adam Wake, said the annual fair remained the most significant event on the charity’s fundraising calendar.

“It’s a special day for our community, but it’s also supported by our community,” he said. “As a non-government funded children’s charity, we rely on fundraising and philanthropy to operate.

“With the new Riptide Cottage enabling us to welcome an additional 700+ each year, every dollar raised at the fair will directly support children experiencing vulnerability.

“The new Riptide facility, the namesake of the well-known song by Vance Joy who stayed here as a child, will be the best facility of its kind in the country serving the children that we do.”

In recognition of the upcoming launch of the Riptide facility, supporters will also be invited to participate in the Riptide Green Brick appeal.

For a $200 donation, supporters will receive an original green brick from the Riptide rebuild, featuring a plaque with their name.

Entry to the annual fair is by donation. For more, head to cottagebythesea.com.au