Torquay Lions call for help to boost Good Friday fundraising

THE Torquay Lions Club is calling for as much support as possible from individuals and businesses alike so it can make a big donation to this year’s Good Friday Appeal (GFA).

Club president Brian Keane said the GFA, run annually for the benefit of the Royal Children’s Hospital, was one of the club’s major projects every year.

“Last year, we raised $43,000, and we will do well again this year,” he predicted.

“However, with the financial worries of many families, we cannot expect some people to donate as much as last year.

“This, of course, does not mean the corporate businesses in Torquay and surrounds cannot jump in with reasonable donations to help the cause.

“The youngsters in hospital now, and those who will need the hospital’s services in the future, need to be assured there will be funds available for the hospital to keep up with advances in technology targeting children’s health in the future.”

Earlier this month, Mr Keane met a young Torquay teenager, who he said was a wonderful example of someone who had thrived because of the Royal Children’s Hospital.

Scarlett McGowan received a heart transplant at the hospital when she was only six months old.

“Scarlett is now 15 years old and continues to visit the hospital every three months for a battery of checks to ensure her future continues to be bright,” Mr Keane said.

“She is a wonderful ambassador for the GFA, telling me she will be taking part in the Appeal this year.

“What a wonderful way to recognise the support she and her family have received over Scarlett’s journey.

“If everyone makes some contribution to the Good Friday Appeal, I am sure Torquay’s final figure will be well up there with other towns in Victoria.”

Last year’s GFA raised a total of $23,061,320.

Anyone interested in fundraising for the GFA can phone Torquay Lions Club member and GFA area manager Peter McMahon on 0411 112 047 or email [email protected]