Local GF appeal pushes million-dollar milestone

Local GF appeal pushes million-dollar milestone

The Devenish, Dookie and District Good Friday Appeal (DDGFA) has built a strong reputation for creative, community-driven fundraising and this year is aiming to surpass the $1 million mark raised over its ten-year history.

Growing from strength to strength, the DDGFA has put both Devenish and Dookie firmly on the map, consistently taking a place on the podium for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

Last year, the team finished third overall, raising an impressive $235,662, a remarkable achievement for towns with a combined population of around 600 people. The DDGFA has now placed in the top five across Victoria for the past five years.

Fundraising is once again underway, with planning in progress for the group’s biggest individual fundraising initiative yet: an online auction running from March 19 to 26.

DDGFA president Paul Durden said donations for auction items are being welcomed until February 15.

“Auction items can be big or small and across all categories, including goods, services, vouchers, gift cards, passes and even professional skilled services,” Mr Durden said.

“Every donation helps us move closer to our goal of raising $1 million over ten years.”

Items already confirmed for the auction include Oscar Piastri’s race helmet, a family pass to any Melbourne Victory home game at AAMI Park, four corporate tickets to a Melbourne Storm game in Melbourne, three Supercar laps in Melbourne, two Richmond AFL guernseys signed by forward Tom Lynch, and even $2,000 worth of donated hay.

“The generosity of people and businesses, particularly around Yarrawonga and Mulwala, amazes us every year,” Mr Durden said.

“In Yarrawonga and Mulwala there has been huge support for the appeal and thanks to committee members Matt and Narelle Parker, we’ve always had a fantastic response.

“It’s not just products, there will also be vouchers, accommodation, dinners and more up for auction. Even individuals can purchase an item and donate it under their own name.”

The Good Friday Appeal has been part of Victoria’s community fabric since 1931, raising vital funds for Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital.

Each year, people across the state unite to support the hospital’s life-saving work and help children and their families through challenging times.

This year’s committee has again pulled together an exciting calendar of events leading into the 2026 appeal:

•Thursday, March 5: Barefoot Bowls Night at Dookie Bowls Club. A relaxed evening with a 6pm start, BBQ dinner included. $20 per person, four per team.

•Thursday, March 19 to Thursday, March 26: Online auction featuring unique items and experiences.

•Sunday, March 29: GV Transport Charity Golf Day at Hilltop Golf Club, Tatura. Ambrose event with 9am check-in. $150 per person or $600 per team, including beer, wine, soft drink, a two-course meal and $4,000 worth of prizes.

•Friday, April 3 (Good Friday): Show ’n’ Shine event in Dookie from 8am to 12 noon, wrapping up the fundraising campaign with live music and a goods and services auction.

With such a diverse range of events, there is something for everyone, whether you’re a music fan, a sports lover or simply looking for a fun day out, all while supporting the Royal Children’s Hospital.

For updates and event details, follow the Devenish, Dookie and District Good Friday Appeal on Facebook.

For more information or to donate, contact Matt Parker on 0428 644 226 or Paul Durden on 0461 397 806.