Emily Chapman Laing
Clyde North local Carla Johnson will soon begin her auction to raise funds for the Cancer Council’s Daffodil Day.
For the entire month of August, Ms Johnson will be auctioning off items and services on Facebook to raise funds, which the highest bidders will pay directly to the Cancer Council.
“I lost both of my parents to cancer, so it means a lot to me,” Ms Johnson said.
“Cancer touches so many people, most people you speak to they’ve had a friend or family member who has been affected, and it’s one of those things where we don’t have a cure.
“So every little bit helps.”
This is the fourth year Ms Johnson has taken the fundraising initiative, though it is the first time she has done so through an auction.
“In previous years I’ve raised money by selling Tupperware,” she said.
“This one is completely new.”
Ms Johnson has been organising the auction alongside her friends Bec and Steve.
“Without them, I couldn’t do it.
“I work full time and without them I just wouldn’t have the time for it.
“But between the three of us, we can manage the group and any questions coming in.”
Ms Johnson has already had many local businesses offering donations for the auction.
Scents on Clyde, A Bite In Time, Hair by Stacey Louise and Kiki-J Beauty have all donated vouchers for their services.
Magical Mermaid Braids, Divinity Candles, Two Spotless Girls, Stick with Suz, Bejewelled Cakes & Catering and Black Angel Apparel have also made donations of items and services.
A local teacher has donated a 45-minute tutoring session, while others have anonymously donated Coles gift cards.
“Everyone has been so generous and everyone has been getting on board.
Ms Johnson is asking individuals and businesses in the Casey area to consider donating to her auction this August.
“You can donate anything, anything at all,” she said.
“I’m mindful that the cost of living has increased significantly, so I know a lot of people don’t have money to waste.
“I’m trying to get things people would normally buy everyday.”
The auction will take place through a private Facebook group, which locals can opt to join.
The group, titled “Cancer Council Auction & Fundraising Victoria – August 2023” will allow for bidders to comment their bids on the auctioned items and services and then pay directly to the Cancer Council through an online link.
Collection of items and services will then be organised.
Any purchases over two dollars will be tax deductible.
“I’m trying to get things that, if you’re buying it anyway, why not bid and try to get it a bit cheaper,” Ms Johnson said.
“And it’s tax deductible as well, so it’s a win-win.”
