August 1, 2023
A special event will be held in Blackbutt on Sunday (August 6) to celebrate the life of a tireless local volunteer who recently received a tragic health diagnosis.
Trish Litjens will be celebrating her life with family and friends in Les Muller Park from 11:00am.
Friend Jeff Connor said the world was divided into “Givers” and “Takers” and “those that just don’t care”.
“Trish is a “Giver” and she cares a whole heap,” he said.
“If there is a worthy cause or someone in trouble, then behind the scenes somewhere you will find Trish Litjens.
“From catering for the canteen at Blackbutt Avofest to running the local Twilight Markets.
“Whether she is organising a fundraiser for the local schools or helping out a neighbour, Trish is always busy with some community project or the other.
“The only distraction from her passion for giving to the community is giving to her garden.
“Trish is a green thumb with an intense love of gardening and creating garden rooms within her five acres of Blackbutt and Benarkin scrub.”
Recently, Trish organised a Christmas In July event which raised more than $5600 for the Benarkin State School P&C.
Jeff said Trish was diagnosed with lung cancer in June.
“The prognosis is not good,” Jeff said. “She was given the news that she only has months left with us. The bottom of her ‘bucket of life’ has just been completely gutted.”
Jeff set a GoFundMe page to help raise funds to allow Trish to receive further treatment.
But in the meantime, he has helped organise the get-together on Sunday for Trish.
Blackbutt Benarkin Lions Club will be providing a sausage sizzle and and there will be an assortment of drinks provided by Bloomin’ Beautiful Blackbutt Festival and Avofest.
A coffee van will also be on site.
“All food and drinks are being provided free but a donation towards Trish will be encouraged,” Jeff said.
“Donation tins will be at all food and drink outlets.
“There will be music and everyone is invited. Come for a few minutes or stay for a while.
“Write your memories or best wishes in Trish’s memories book. Take the opportunity to grab the microphone and share a funny story, a favourite memory or just tell Trish what you really think of her! This is your chance to be a part of Trish’s Celebration of Life.”
- External link: GoFundMe page
