The dinner is planned to coincide with the visit to Parkes of missionary Annabel de Souza Lima.

Annabel has served in East Timor for the past 10 years and established the Youth With a Mission (YWAM) presence in Weberek.

For the last 11 years the Peak Hill Uniting Church has been sending volunteer teams to East Timor to assist in a range of projects including work on the pre-school, installation of solar lights and ‘loos’ to homes, the drilling of a water bore and this year commencement of work in replacing asbestos roofing.

More than 100 people have participated in the volunteer program during the past decade.

“Last year I was able to go and sign a friendship agreement with the East Timor village of Weberek to formalise the arrangement.” Cr Keith said.

“It meant that the Parkes Shire adopted the cause to support Weberek and continue to encourage individuals, church groups or service clubs to become involved in helping the village in any way possible.

“This year we replaced their bore so the village once again has fresh, clean drinking water.”

While there the volunteer group also initiated the asbestos roof replacement program by training four of the village locals in appropriate OH&S skills.

“We received agreement at a community meeting for the safe removal and disposal of the asbestos material.

“Total cost of the project, including houses and verandahs is approximately $35,000.

“Around $14,000 has been raised to date and the first instalment of galvanised iron brought and delivered to Weberek.

“So the project is up and running,” he said.

Cr Keith has appealed to residents to attend the fundraising dinner `and support our disadvantaged near neighbours.’

It will take place at the Parkes Leagues Club on Monday, November 14, commencing 6.30 for 7.00pm.

All service clubs, churches and the community in general are invited to attend.

Cost is $30 per head.

“The night will include our guest speaker talking of her experiences, a power point presentation outlining Parkes Shires involvement and what has been achieved over the years,” Cr Keith said.