Call for support for Picnic in the Park

HEATHCOTE RSL Sub-Branch is seeking support from local businesses and organisations for their annual Australia Day Picnic in the Park family event.

RSL volunteers aim to ensure the program is as free as possible.

“For some years now, Heathcote RSL Sub-Branch volunteers have coordinated the day,” said RSL Sub-Branch president Miles Humphrey.

“The event has increased in popularity each year and includes a sausage sizzle, ice-cream cart, petting zoo, face painter, and live entertainment.

“The event attracts a few hundred people throughout the day, including many families with young children amongst our older demographic enjoying the shade and the entertainment at Barrack Reserve.

“Funding to ensure this event is as free as possible to those attending, is mostly provided by the sub-branch from fundraising throughout the year, with assistance also from the City of Greater Bendigo and Mandalay Resources.

“Funding we provide comes solely from our social fundraising, not from our welfare accounts derived from Anzac and Remembrance Day badge and poppy sales – which are restricted to supporting veterans and their families in need, in accordance with RSL rules and charter.

“If any business or organisation feels that this is something that they would like to support in order to offset the costs to our sub-branch, please let me know.

“Any support will be much appreciated, and we would love to promote local businesses in our advertising for the day. Additionally, if anyone has any suggestions as to any improvements or additions that can be made to the event, please let me know.”

Mr Humphrey can be contacted at [email protected].