About 90 people volunteered their time for the collection, which will continue online until the end of June.

Fundraising coordinator Andrew Dunkley said the figure was lower than last year’s $18,000 total, but would rise as fundraising data came in from EFTPOS, tap-and-go and online.

“We had a lot of competitive interest this year,” Mr Dunkley said.

“I think with the show, people were saving their pennies and the rates are due this week, but it was a pretty good effort all round.”

All up, Mr Dunkley is predicting up to $16,000 will have been raised in Dubbo in the 2017 Red Shield Appeal Door Knock.

As of Monday afternoon, more than $4.7 million had been raised nationwide.

“Last year we saw donations in Dubbo significantly rise, so we’re going to beat the 2015 figure,” he said.

“Last year might have been a spike, we can’t tell.

“We also got $3000 through telemarketing last year so it’s too early to call.”

Fundraising totals were down across the region, Mr Dunkley said, but it was never too late for people to donate.

“They can certainly donate online at salvos.org.au, drop money off at the Family Store or at the welfare office at 110 Gipps Street,” he said.

“There’s always need, we see it everyday. People come in, whether they need food, or can’t meet their expenses or getting away from a bad family situation.

“It’s not an uncommon situation in a city the size of Dubbo unfortunately.”

He said officers David and Lara Sutcliffe also wished to offer their thanks to local residents for their generosity.

“To anyone who put money in the bucket: every contribution is welcome. Even if it is just a couple of cents, we appreciate it,” they said.

Visit www.salvos.org.au for more information.