Efforts to assist people affected by the Sir Ivan Fire are continuing more than a month after the bushfire devastated country east of Dunedoo.
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The level of support flowing in has been so high that Caring for Coolah coordinator, Bronwyn Drew, is asking people to refrain from donating household materials and turn their focus to money donations.
“The thing is those that lost their homes have either been rehomed elsewhere or they just don't have anywhere to put anything, so we've got very limited storage,” Bronwyn said.
“The hall is absolutely chockablock full, we’re trying to make space in the shop.
“But it’s just massive the amount of stuff that we have.”
Bronwyn decided the most effective way to get use out of the donated goods is to sell them at a monster garage sale over the Easter long weekend and donate the funds raised to the Warrumbungle Shire Mayor’s Bushfire Appeal Sir Ivan Fire.
Everything from furniture, clothing, toys, linen, kitchenware – “anything and everything” – will go up for sale over the Saturday, Sunday and Monday between 10am and 4pm at the Coolah Youth and Community Centre opposite the Coolah Central School.
She clarified that despite selling the donated goods Caring for Coolah will continue supporting victims of the Sir Ivan Fire into the future.
“Doesn't matter if six months down the track if someone comes into us saying they're reestablished, they'll still get it for free,” she said.
Caring for Coolah will continue taking donations of nonperishable foods, cleaning products, tools and gift vouchers.
“We are also looking to down the track at hopefully plants for gardens lost, whether people will grow cutting and look after them until spring time and or gift vouchers,” Bronwyn said.
“If we are able to secure these items, it lessens the burden on those affected by the fire and allows them to use their money to get their fences fixed, water tanks etc.”
Contact Bronwyn on 0421 863 882 prior to dropping more donations at the centre.
Concert to raise funds
Local musicians in Dubbo are busy organising a monster variety concert in aid of the Coolah Valley Bushfire Rebuilding program.
Local man, Barry Joseph, was shocked by the devastation he witnessed when flying over the fire-affected region recently and knew he had to help.
Fellow musician Gary Hollier jumped on board the idea to host a concert.
A number of local organisations have since donated their services to bring the evening of entertainment to Dubbo, featuring jazz, country, and rock and roll music.
“They’re all country people, they all understand and emphasise on the situation and are always willing to help,” Gary said.
The concert will be held at the Dubbo RSL auditorium from 1pm on Sunday, March 26.
The cost is $10 for adults and children free. All proceeds will go to the Coolah Valley Bushfire Rebuilding program.