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That’s what Parkes Can Assist secretary Pat Bailey said after the charity was presented with a $10,850 cheque.
The money was raised during the second annual charity rugby union match between hosts Parkes Boars Rugby Union Club and Forbes Platypi, this year held on July 9.
Fifty per cent of the gate takings went to Can Assist, as did the proceeds from a raffle – won by Libby Handcock – and, later that night at a gathering at a Parkes hotel, an auction of the Boars’ special fundraising jerseys.
“It was a packed house, it was bigger than last year,” Parkes Rugby Union treasurer Ed Lowe said.
“I would say there were more than 100 people there.
“And someone at the gate that day pulled out $5 to pay and when he was told half the money was going to Can Assist, he pulled out $20.
“So it shows how generous people really can be.”
The Parkes Services Club also donated $500 to the cause.
Parkes won two of their three games that weekend, but Ed said the day’s main focus wasn’t about winning.
“We are grateful to Forbes for hanging around on the day and contributing to the fundraising,” he said.
“A private anonymous donor also donated $1000 to Parkes Can Assist and another $1000 to Forbes Can Assist.”
The final tally raised $350 more than last year’s event.
“It doesn’t matter if it was a dollar more,” Pat said.
“It’s a dollar that we didn’t have.
“Can Assist is extremely grateful for what they do.”
PICTURED: At the cheque presentation to Parkes Can Assist at the Parkes Services Club were, from left to right, Anne and Bruce McLachlan from Parkes Can Assist, Denis Lane from the Parkes Services Club, Parkes Boars Rugby Union Club president Al Gersbach, Parkes Can Assist secretary Pat Bailey, Trevor Southwell (Can Assist), Carol Southwell (Can Assist assistant secretary), Parkes Boars treasurer Ed Lowe and Cae Angrave (Can Assist).