Music alive and kicking for a good cause

EIGHT local bands partly made up of cancer survivors will be taking to the stage for a fundraising event supporting those living with the disease. 

Jillian Daly, whose husband Trevor Daly received cancer treatment last year and is now in remission, is organising the Petermac Allies Music Festival Fundraiser and said proceeds will go to the Peter McCallum Cancer Centre.

“Peter Mac saved his life,” she said. “We were so impressed by what they did and how they did it that we just spoke about raising some money for them and doing something to pay it back. 

“We are so thankful for the treatment he received in such a caring, compassionate and most efficient way. 

“All of the members of the eight rock bands that will be playing… are all really good friends and are so supportive of this cause because, as with most people, cancer affects us all in one way or another.” 

Ms Daly said the support of local people and businesses has been incredible, with donations of items for a silent auction, services like signage, and “an army” of volunteers all rolling in. 

“So far, I’m up around $6000 of donated goods and services and I’ve only been collecting for about three weeks. We’ve still got another three weeks to go,” she said. 

“The community’s really got behind it, it’s great. 

“We’re emphasising positive vibes and like I’m going to print out about 50 inspirational quotes about cancer and life.” 

The Petermac Allies Music Festival Fundraiser will be on Saturday 9 March from 2pm to 11pm at Allies Hotel in Myers Flat. 

At 5.45pm, several of the musicians in the different groups who have had cancer will be coming together to play three songs under the band name Not Dead Yet. 

Ms Daly said she hopes this event will raise about $10,0000. 

Entry is by donation and raffle tickets will be sold for auctions across categories like auto, camping, art, homeware, and more.