Community groups benefit from Services Club initiative

Forbes Community Men’s Shed, Forbes Rodeo Inc and Forbes Eisteddfod are the latest recipients to share in funds from the Community Chest Charity Raffle. 

At a cheque presentation on Friday, CEO of the Forbes Services Memorial Club David Fitzgerald said the Community Chest Charity Raffle, which has raised over $48,000 and financed one community group a month for the last 18 months, could not be possible without the generous support of the Forbes community.

“The $48,140 could not have been raised without the support of the Club’s members and guests who purchase raffle tickets every Wednesday and Friday nights,” Mr Fitzgerald said. 

“It makes me really proud. A big thank you to all.”

Forbes Community Men’s Shed received $2839 to purchase equipment and furniture for a dining room in their new Men’s Shed Union St site. 

“It will seat up to 60 or 70 people. The more comfortable, the better. We want to encourage new members to come along,” president Norm Haley said. 

The Forbes Rodeo Inc received $2,738 that will assist them with the development of their own purpose built Rodeo arena.

“We are trying to find a permanent block of land to host the Forbes Rodeo, hold workshops for students and lend to other community groups,” said Forbes Rodeo Organiser Troy Read.

Forbes Eisteddfod received $2600 to assist with hosting the annual Forbes Eisteddfod. 

Secretary Jan Facey was thrilled with the financial assistance, which came the day the Music and Speech and Drama Eisteddfod kicked off. 

“This will go a long way. It helps to pay for the adjudicators, prize money and trophies,” she said. 

“Any time is good for us to get some money in the bank, but this has come at an opportune time.

President of FSMC Wayne Richards said the initiative is aimed at helping as many local community groups as possible. To include your community or sporting group in the Community Chest Charity Raffle, send a letter to the Board of Directors seeking the opportunity.