Mums event raises $45,000 in a day
Horsham’s second Love Your Mum event has proved a massive success, raising $25,000 for Grampians Health’s Yandilla maternity unit at Horsham and a further $20,000 for Royal Flying Doctors Services.
The charity event is the combined creation of hard-working Horsham philanthropist Robyn Lardner and big-hearted culinary queens Maria and Teresa Marchesini with a cast of generous supporters giving their time and energy to support local health. For the mums and their families who attend, it is an afternoon of delicious treats and health education combined with entertainment.
Guests arriving at Horsham Town Hall on Mother’s Day were greeted by a garden scene with pianist Sandra Kitchen and supporter Des Lardner welcoming them. Penny, Audrey and Georgia were ready with floral wristlets before guests sat at their tables. Lee Elliott arranged the table setting with cloches of birds and bird cages, conjuring up all things garden.
Full-time paramedic and part-time performer Molly Magee entertained the 130-strong crowd with her vocal-guitar talents and MC Emma Clarke kept the raffles and spot prizes flowing with more than 60 Horsham businesses donating to the event and ensuring there were plenty of happy winners.
Answering questions from Emma, Grampians Health Horsham site manager Maree Markby and Royal Flying Doctor Service Head of Philanthropy Sue Parkes spoke about the services they provide to the community and the constant need for donations to ensure safe care.
Contributing heavily to the event’s success were the volunteer kitchen team, many of whom wore aprons made by Adelaide quilters Kathy Thomas and Suzanne Sutton. The aprons were designed with a floral theme and were sold after the event. Suzanne is well known for her memory blankets for people in palliative care.
Robyn Lardner said the event committee raised $15,000 for the Yandilla ensuite and an anonymous donor provided a further $10,000 while another anonymous donor contributed $500. A further $20,000 was also raised for the RFDS.
Maria Marchesini said the generosity from the community and support from businesses had been overwhelming.
“My sister Teresa and I were blown away with the generosity of people and this is why we do what we do, wanting to help within our community where possible,” Ms Marchesini said.
“Fortunately, we love cooking and love sharing with people. This is the second time we have hosted this event and we are overwhelmed with the support received from 64 businesses, allowing us to increase our fundraising options and also give away another 30 gifts provided by mainly local businesses."
The savoury bites and sweet treats were all prepared by the Marchesini sisters along with the floral themed cup, saucer and plate for every guest.
Grampians Health Chief People Officer Claire Woods congratulated the small group of helpers who made the event happen.
"It never ceases to amaze me what our communities can achieve when it comes to fundraising for their health services," Ms Woods said.
"For such a small yet dedicated group to raise $45,000 from a single day event is simply incredible and I want to thank every single person who helped raise the money or contribute towards it.
“Their support will ensure that patients from this community will benefit in a big way from their contribution."
