Thomson has been left a quadriplegic following a fall at the Parkes Paceway when participating in a private trial with two other locals.

Despite his terrible injuries and permanent paralysis, Thomson said it was a relief that doctors gave him the okay to come back to Parkes where he is currently being cared for at the district hospital.

“It would be much nicer to be back in my home, but due to my restrictions, the house (which is a two-storey building) needs to be substantially remodelled,” Thomson said.

The renovations are being managed by Thomson’s son- in-law, local builder Darren Heraghty, and while he is doing most of the work, a number of other tradesmen in Parkes are assisting.

Meanwhile, the steering committee for the Keith Thomson Appeal had finalised arrangements for a gala dinner and auction to be held on September 6.

Proceeds from the evening will be used to assist Thomson and his family with the huge cost of modifying their house and to purchase equipment that he requires to cope with day-to-day living.

The steering committee, headed by Allan and Cheryl Thomson and Bill Palmer, is receiving fantastic support from Harness Racing New South Wales, the Western District Harness Racing Association and the Parkes Harness Racing Club.

Allan Thompson said the team at HRNSW, headed by chairman Graeme Campbell and CEO Max Pool, had been fantastic in their support of the appeal and had received a number of memorabilia items to be auctioned. They have also booked talented country band Jettyroad to entertain the crowd on the night.

Jettyroad has just completed an overseas tour which saw the band perform in places such as Nashville and France and critics are predicting a big future for them. Tickets are now on sale at the Parkes Leagues Club venue at a cost of $70 for adults and $35 for children and includes a two-course meal, all beer, wine and soft drink as well as a host of entertainment.

Popular Parkes identity Michael Greenwood has accepted an invitation to be the master of ceremonies while Richard Rice from Parkes stock and station agents Langlands Hanlon will carry out the auctioneering duties.

“We are appealing to all participants in the harness racing industry and the residents of Parkes Shire to get behind us in our quest to raise worthwhile funds for Keith and his wife June,” Bill Palmer said.

Auction items will be gratefully received and it is hoped plenty of people will attend the dinner with more than half of the ticket price going towards the appeal.

Donations can be made at any branch of the Commonwealth Bank to contribute to the Keith Thomson Appeal, BSB no. 06 2588, account no. 1015 8350.