A chance to say thank you

MUDBRICK Motley Theatre and Heathcote RSL are joining forces to organise an event to raise funds for Heathcote emergency services, the CFA and SES.

Gratitude Day will be held on 21 June at the RSL hall from noon to 5pm.

The idea for the event came from Mudbrick Motley Theatre founder Maree Hingston.

“I was at an HCCB meeting last year, when I heard an SES member describe how they had raised almost half the amount needed for their off -road vehicle,” she said.

“I thought it might be possible for the theatre group to help with further funding.

“We could also show the CFA and the SES how much we appreciate the way volunteers keep our community safe.

“I mulled over my idea but realised our group could not achieve this goal unless we had substantial help.

“I contacted the Heathcote RSL with a proposal that we might work together.

“The RSL was willing to join with us in planning a day where our community could come together, enjoy a concert performance of local artists, and a luncheon, while making donations to support both services.”

A steering committee was formed, including CFA and SES members.

Entry to the RSL on Gratitude Day will be free.

“We are expecting a huge response from local people and table reservations will be opening at the Community House in early June,” said Hingston.

“We are currently reaching, out to local business owners and winemakers asking them to generously donate goods and services for us to use for our silent auction and raffle prizes.

“We have also been contacting local performing artists asking that they contribute their time and talent to appear in our concert.

“All those contacted have volunteered to perform, which means we can offer ouraudience a wonderful afternoon of quality entertainment.

“In return we are hoping the audience will respond by making generous donations to our fund.

“We are all excited by the prospect of giving back to our Emergency Service Volunteers in gratitude for all they do.”