Torquay Lions aim to break fundraising record

THE Billy Ryan Bowls Charity Day raised $12,000 was raised for the CFA last year in a day of bowling, friendship, camaraderie and an atmosphere of laughs and community spirit.

This year’s event will raise funds for the SES Torquay Unit at the Torquay Bowls Club on Friday, April 11.

Billy Ryan was a Lion, bowler and well-loved in Torquay who passed away in July 2022 with the Bowls Charity Day named after him.

SES units are made up of unpaid volunteers, many who are self-employed and not only give their time to help others in an emergency but also lose time when they could have been earning money.

The equipment they use is expensive, and funds from the government are not enough to meet their needs.

Currently the units truck, which carries four members, desperately needs replacing costing around $270,000 for a fully fitted out new vehicle.

While government funding takes them most of the way, there is still a shortfall of around $90,000 needed to be raised.

As a volunteer organisation the Lions club is pitching in to help, along with the Torquay Bowls Club who will host the charity day.

 

Bowlers, who have a lot of fun at the event, are also quick to put their hands in their pockets while local businesses have generously provided gifts and vouchers for a series of raffles.

There will also be a silent auction, which is open to the general public, bids will be closed at 3.30 pm before the winning bidders settle.

Lions Club president Colin Bellis said the whole club was behind the annual Billy Ryan Bowls Charity Day.

“Our members called on some 200 local Torquay Traders, asking for any support they could provide, such as gifts, vouchers, or cash.

“We also received large donations from our long-term major supporters Champion Blinds, McCartney Real Estate and Roy Morris & Co. Lawyers.

“The generosity of our town’s businesses was overwhelming, and we raised thousands of dollars.”

“SES members are volunteers who give their time so we can all feel safe. We are extremely grateful for the community’s support.”

Torquay Bowls Club will again host the day with 30 teams playing 3 x 10 ends, with four players per team.

Torquay bowlers will be joined by other local clubs, although it isn’t pennant, the competition will be intense.

“We are grateful! The money raised will help us with vital equipment needed to deal with emergencies and keep our community safe,” SES Torquay Unit controller Graham Pocklington said.

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