May 23, 2023
Horses have helped the homeless with a fundraising effort which included a week-long online auction and a western performance show in Nanango
The South Burnett Western Performance Club (SBWPC) organised the events to help the work of South Burnett CTC.
The western performance show, which was was held at the Nanango Equestrian Centre on May 6, attracted riders from as far away as the Sunshine Coast and Gatton to ride and raise awareness about homelessness in the South Burnett.
The fundraiser raised more than $2500 for the cause.
“Every year our club runs one show for a worthy cause,” SBWPC president Sarah Saxer said.
“There is no direct funding allocated to homeless initiatives in this area. They rely totally from donations and with it being a major issue in the Burnett we thought our show and auction this year would go to such an important cause.”
CTC chief operating officer Jason Erbacher attended the day on Saturday and thanked the club.
“We have funded programs to help young people aged 16-25 who are homeless but not for general homelessness outside this age group, so these funds will help with emergency relief vouchers and food, swags and supporting staff to work through community housing processes with those needing a safe place to live,” Jason said.
“Again, many thanks from our staff and the people who will directly benefit from your kind generosity.
“Please refer people doing it tough by getting them to call us on (07) 4162-7788, message our Facebook page or drop into our Kingaroy office on Somerset Street and we will help where we can.”
Auction items donated by local businesses ranged from gift vouchers to stallion services.
The SBWPC said the generosity of businesses and members had been amazing.
The event was sponsored by Bindawalla Hay, Blackbutt Fuel and Tyre, Bowerbird Heaven On Fitzroy, Flavourista Representative Louise Hartley, Horse Torque Saddlery, House of Sage, Kerin Cullen Equine Services, Klean Dogz, Kylie Chant Accounting, Petstock Kingaroy, RJF Performance Horses, Ryke Fuel, SB Equissage, Trail Riders Emporium/Horse Trax Oz, Trojan Horse Equine Services, Wends Tail Bags and Western Cushions by Helen; as well as donations from members Edie White, Jan Biddle, Jo Allen, Rosie Fyfe and Carol Mills.
The next show weekend at the South Burnett Western Performance Club will be held on the first weekend in June.
Spectators are always welcome to come along.
