DDD president Paul Durden said 140 quality animals donated by local farmers were auctioned at Shepparton Regional Saleyards on October 8, raising an impressive $30,000.
Mr Durden said this was a big increase on the previous year when about 90 sheep were auctioned to raise around $18,000.
“We made $80,000 in total last year from our fundraising and we’re aiming for $100,000 this year so this is a great start,” he said.
“We thank everyone for their fantastic support, particularly given the challenges of COVID-19.”
Mr Durden said one farmer had donated 22 sheep, and there many regulars who each year bought a sheep or two to support the cause. The average price was $210 a head with a top price of $520.
He also thanked the saleyards’ Brendan Carey for his ongoing support and all the helpers on the day.
Mr Durden said DDD was right up there with far larger regions such as Geelong and Ballarat when it came to donations for the annual Royal Children’s Hospital fundraiser.
He put the district’s success down to a generous community and a good cause.
“Everyone wants to get behind the hospital — (its work) has touched a lot of people’s lives — and they know all the money raised is going to a good cause.”
The lamb and sheep auction is just one of many events organised by DDD, with online auctions, raffles and a show-and-shine in the pipeline.
Mr Durden said DDD was always looking for new volunteers with new ideas to support its fundraising efforts.
For more information on how to get involved, phone Paul Durden on 0409 563 671 or follow @dddgoodfridayappeal on Facebook.
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