Shoppers won’t be able to get a park at the Ritchies store on Bank St on Saturday, November 15, as the anticipated event is set to be in full swing from 9.30am to 1pm.
    
                  
                                                                
                  
                                            
                              
        Store manager Mandy Hawke said the event was more than just a fun day out.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        “We centre our day around the local CFA and SES,” she said.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        “With the kind donations of raffle prizes, these groups spend the two weeks before the day selling raffle tickets and promoting the event.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        “Over the past 11 years, they have raised $67,962, which is used to go back into their organisations to buy much needed equipment.”
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        Ms Hawke said both groups would have a presence in the car park on the day, “with all their assets on display”.
    
                  
                                                                
                  
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        For local kids, Ritchies will provide a free jumping castle and face painter, along with 600 showbags donated by suppliers.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        A sound stage will also be set up, with music from local performers and the Cobram Secondary College school bands, which, Ms Hawke said, “always draw a good crowd”.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        Costume characters will also bring the fun, and local primary schools will be in attendance, selling goods at their stalls, which have amassed about $13,500 over the years.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        “The Monster Raffle draw concludes the day, and all suppliers are acknowledged for their kind donations,” Ms Hawke said.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        “If you have any displays or ideas, please feel free to give me a call. We would also love to see you on the day.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        “With the continues support from my staff and the community, the day just gets bigger and bigger each year.”
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        For more information, contact Ms Hawke on 0417 311 922 or at cobram_manager@ritchies.com.au