Raising the awareness of debilitating health at Holbrook

Bush communities bond quickly whenever there are challenges as much as they enjoy the good times; and the smaller the community, the tighter the bond.

That is what is happening in Holbrook where a group of like-minded people, calling themselves Holbrook District Fundraisers and working with the Holbrook Sporting Complex, have decided to actually do something about supporting disease research.

Spokesperson for the group, Russell Parker said the idea evolved after a couple of farmers pondered over a chat ... 'what can we do?'

"In one way, nearly all of us have been affected by a brush with cancer or MND, either directly or indirectly," he said.

"Seeing friends afflicted by an awful disease inspired us to do something."

Mr Parker said that was the motivation behind the idea 'Don't drop the ball on health'; it is as much about raising the awareness of the charities they are supporting, as it is being aware of our own health.

"It has been done in other areas, but because of our involvement with family and close friends with cancer and MND it became a little bit more personal," he said.

"We also wanted to make it relevant to our local Holbrook and neighbouring districts, and on Sunday 18 August we will have the 'Don't drop the ball on health' day which will involve the whole community."

The funds are being raised to support Research for Riney, Bowel Cancer Australia, FightMND and Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund Inc.

Mr Parker said it will be a community family orientated day, with the day starting at 11.30am with free entry; Spit roast including BBQ, and drinks will be available; Games for all the family will also be ongoing during the event.

The afternoon entertainment will be the FightMND Holbrook Big Freeze slide, where four brave local identities will plunge into an icy water pool.

The helicopter tennis ball drop will be next, with the 600 tennis balls dropped on to the oval.

"There will be $3000 worth of prizes for the ball drop to be won including 'closest to the pin,' he said.

An auction of items kindly donated by the community including Australian Open 2020 tickets, a signed Collingwood football jumper, jewelry, loads of quality wood, a Kelpie pup and freezers filled with sides of lamb or a beef pack will be conducted after the tennis ball drop.

"We also have accommodation at the Victoria Hotel in Melbourne, and a framed photograph from The Land, and we are most appreciative of all the support and donated items" Mr Parker said.

"Holbrook Rotary have already donated $2500, which we thank them for and we are hoping to get everyone involved.

"The event is being managed by the Holbrook Sporting Complex in conjunction with Holbrook District Fundraisers, and balls can be purchased for $30 from Sarah at The Ten Mile Eatery Holbrook or Vicki at Holbrook Post Office."

"Come along, it will be a fun day and all for a good cause!"