Accord supports local families in need
THE Bathurst Liquor Accord is getting to the heart of community causes.
This week, members donated $2500 to The Charlotte “Charlie” Casavalls Association, which was established to assist a local family after Charlie, 2, was diagnosed with a rare neurological disorder.
The donation followed a $2500 contribution to Alan’s Party Afternoon and Benefit Bash, which raised funds to support the family of eight-year-old schoolboy Alan Ryan, who has spent the past year battling brain cancer.
Bathurst Liquor Accord president Robert “Stumpy” Taylor said the decision to support the two causes was unanimous.
“As much as we know there is a need for funds to be put towards research, we wanted to donate money directly to the family,” Mr Taylor said.
“These cases involve local families and local children, so it is very appropriate for us to lend a hand.
“Hopefully our donations will relieve some of the financial burdens of the festive season and allow the families to concentrate on spending time with their children.”
The Bathurst Liquor Accord hosted its annual charity golf day on November 16. The event raised $16,000 for local causes – in the past six years, the accord has offered more than $86,000 to local charities and community groups.
“Through the golf day and the generosity of local businesses, we’re able to help a number of local causes,” Mr Taylor said. “This is our major fundraiser for the year and one way the local liquor industry gives back to our community.”
The liquor accord has donated about $7000 to the Christmas Miracle Appeal each year since 2006.
This year’s recipients have also included the ‘Think the Drink’ program, which gives local secondary school students the opportunity to attain their Responsible Service of Alcohol certificate; various road safety initiatives; and the Bathurst Women and Children Refuge, which has received $10,000 to assemble back-to-school packs for primary-aged students.
Mr Taylor also offered a reminder to celebrate responsibly this festive season.
