Benjeroop benefits

Larry Childs, Bodhi Hawken of Benjaroop, Gembrook MP Brad Battin, Mechahla Battin and Councillor Amanda Stapledon at the function to raise money for Benjeroop.

By Emma Sun
A BENEFIT to raise money for the Victorian town of Benjeroop, which was affected by the February floods, has raised more than $50,000.
A total of 220 people attended the function, which was held at the Cranbourne Turf Club.
Event organiser Larry Childs said it was a huge success and a group of people who came down from Benjeroop was ecstatic about the achievement.
“The people from Benjeroop who were at the function were totally rapt, they’re still gushing about the whole day,” he said.
“The Benjeroop people have indicated they want this to be run every year and they’ll sponsor the event. One busload came down this year; it’ll be four next year.”
Casey councillor Amanda Stapledon said it was wonderful to meet the people of Benjeroop and hear their stories, despite some stories not being so pleasant.
“These are amazing people who have endured great hardship and have overcome them,” she said.
“The event saw a far southern community coming together to reach out and offer some help to Benjeroop whilst enjoying a day together.”
The benefit featured a live auction of various items donated by kind businesses, including a signed and framed Collingwood jumper, two Virgin flight tickets to Bali, a Holden Cruze and a Toyota Yaris.
“There was some really, really good stuff,” Mr Childs said.
“We had some large donors too – $25,000 was raised at auction and $25,000 was through big donations.”
Mr Childs said he was taken aback by the amount of support that has been shown by everyone involved and the people of Benjeroop have expressed their external gratitude.
“I was amazed the way people said yes – we had blokes donating fishing charters, veterinary packages, logistic packages and accommodation and dining packages,” he said.
“The people of Benjeroop have indicated that they will be forever grateful for what was started on that day. They are so appreciative of what happened.”