Billy’s Frothy Fund claim fourth Dry July title

A GENEROUS and giving Geelong community has helped Billy’s Frothy Fund rise to the top and achieve a fourth consecutive national Dry July fundraising title.

Led by Geelong Cats legend Billy Brownless and Villawood executive director Rory Costelloe, the Billy’s Frothy Fund team raised more than $68,000 (as of today) for the Barwon Health Foundation and its Andrew Love Cancer Centre.

Brownless said he was thrilled with the fundraising efforts.

“Four incredible years in a row that our Geelong Frothy Fund team has come out on top – unbelievable!

“I’m blown away by each and every team member who has rallied their community in support of local cancer patient treatment and care.”

Mr Costelloe achieved a huge personal feat of his own, becoming the top individual fundraiser in the country for a fourth consecutive year.

During the final stages of the campaign, Mr Costelloe matched donors’ contributions dollar for dollar, resulting in him raising more than $42,000.

“It’s been a magnificent effort by so many people,” he said.

“I’ve been doing Dry July in memory of my brother Justin, who succumbed to cancer five years ago, as well as my niece who is bravely battling cancer now. And, of course, to help people and families hit by cancer.

“I received tremendous support from friends across Geelong and Bendigo, from our Villawood family and so many others as well. I truly appreciate their efforts in this great cause.”

Across the Greater Geelong region, more than 160 community members, business leaders, sporting identities, current and past patients and Barwon Health staff members committed to going dry throughout the month of July.

This huge wave of local support resulted in $124,000 being donated to assist local cancer patients and their families.

Notably, Hoop City Ballers raised an impressive $22,987 for the cause, while Geelong resident Stefi Kerby landed just outside the top 10 in individual fundraising by hitting the $10,000 mark.

Dry July fundraising remains open until August 31. To donate, head to dryjuly.com/beneficiaries/barwonhealthsandrewlovecancercentregeelong