Toy Dash celebrates a decade of giving

A WIDE assortment of cars, trucks and motorbikes will make the 18 kilometre trek from the All Seasons Hotel to the Axedale Tavern on Sunday 1 December as part of the annual Toy Dash to the Tav.

Now in its tenth year, the Toy Dash aims to collect as many new, unwrapped toys for donation to the Salvation Army as possible.

The convoy will depart the All Seasons at 11.30am sharp and arrive in Axedale just in time for lunch at the Tavern, where there’ll be live music and free face painting for the kids.

Event founder and coordinator Mel Tatt said all toys collected will go to Central Victorian families who are experiencing financial difficulty.

“The Salvation Army interviews each family to ensure they are genuinely in need, so it’s a very targeted and thoughtful process,” she said.

“We’re looking for toys for all ages, from babies to teenagers.

“The Salvos often struggle with getting enough gifts for teenagers so they tend to miss out, which is why those types of gifts are particularly needed.

“Every little bit helps, just the smallest thing… even a colouring book will make a difference to someone.”

If people can’t make it on the day, they can also drop off toys at collection points including Beauty Bar Bendigo (in Huntly), OMG Barbecue in Kangaroo Flat, Property Plus in Kangaroo Flat and Distinctive Options near Target.

Find out more about the event on the Toy Dash to The Tav Facebook page.