by the bushfire crisis that devastated the country across an unforgiving summer But that quickly expanded, as they began collaborating with local not- forprofits, businesses and the community to help individual volunteers, entire brigades and people who had been evacuated. Those wishing to help out can join the the ‘Western Sydney Help a Fire Volunteer’ Facebook group. Ms Suckling was also involved in helping Mogo Zoo with former Lindsay MP, Emma Husar. After the first fire front came through, the zoo was impacted but the animals were thankfully saved. As a second fire front was approaching, fear was running high as they were stranded without water or fire extinguishers to defend themselves. Within the next seven hours, Ms Suckling and Ms Husar organised for 120 fire extinguishers, 100 fire blankets as well as water and other items to be sent to the zoo. Ms Husar also started a GoFundMe campaign for the zoo that has garnered over $90,000. Lindsay MP, Melissa McIntosh has also started the Community Care Kit collection drive in partnership with Hawkesbury City Councillor Sarah Richards and the Mountains Combined Chambers and Community’s Jo Bromilow. “We have been very fortunate so far this
fire season, and we want to help our fellow Australians,” Ms McIntosh said. Three kits are being packed at Ms McIntosh’s office over the coming weeks including home kits, school kits and firies energy snack kits. For people who would like to make a donation, a list of items for the kits is available online on Facebook at Melissa McIntosh MP or from Ms McIntosh’s office on 4722 0600. Items can be dropped off at Ms McIntosh’s office at 331 High Street. A number of fundraising events have taken off around the community including a huge effort from the Penrith Panthers at their open training session last Saturday. This included fundraising games, signing sessions, rides and a barbeque. The amount raised is set to be announced later this month. Other upcoming events include a charity lunch to be held today (Friday, January 17) at the Jamison Hotel, organised by Our Community Cares. The Penrith Paceway is also hosting an Aussie Themed Charity Night event on Saturday, January 25 from 6pm-9pm. A host of other local businesses ran fundraisers, or offered support to those fighting the fires, including OnePointHealth which held free appointments for Rural Fire Service volunteers.
the western weekender » Friday, January 17, 2020
hurt nation’s time of need
Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary signs autographs at the club’s fundraiser.
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