Fleet chief goes above and beyond for cancer cause

A REVVED-up raffle that is raising funds to support cancer patients in the region via the Bendigo Health Foundation will dole out over $300,000 worth of prizes thanks to Big Hill businessman Andy Hoare.

Mr Hoare, the founder and CEO of heavy machinery supplier and contractor Yellow Iron Fleet, has stumped up a 2022 Corvette with less than 50 kilometres on its odometer, valued at $236,000; a gold nugget worth around $50,000; and a $35,000 Hamilton Island holiday to go to the competition winners.

The raffle will be drawn at another significant annual fundraising event that specifically targets Bendigo Health’s Cancer Wellness Program, the fifth McKean McGregor Gala Ball.

Not one for the spotlight, Mr Hoare said he was motivated to act by the storied impact of the ball, which in its history has so far raised almost $1 million for the program.

“Having attended in previous years, I was inspired to find a way that I could further amplify their fundraising,” he said.

“We are doing this by giving the community an opportunity to participate in this amazing fundraiser with the chance to win great prizes but, more importantly, help local cancer patients.

“I’m also very proud that 100 per cent of proceeds will support cancer patients at Bendigo Health.”

Bendigo Health Foundation director of fundraising Shaun Spence said both initiatives demonstrate what is possible when local businesses and residents work together.

“Bendigo has always shown up when it matters,” he said.

“These initiatives give people a powerful way to contribute – whether that’s attending the gala ball or purchasing a raffle ticket, knowing the funds stay here and support local families.”

Raffle tickets are limited to 15,000 and are available on the Corvette for Cancer website at corvetteforcancer.com.au