Local business fundraiser to help fire victims

A COMPASSIONATE plea from a Townsville woman to help her fellow Australians devastated by bushfires has led to an outpouring of generosity from dozens of local businesses.

Pallarenda mum Ashley Schrodter has raised more than $5000 after rallying 61 local businesses to raffle off prizes in support of those impacted by the bushfires.

Mrs Schrodter, who runs her own jewellery business, solder and ash, said she was touched by the generosity on display after kicking off the fundraiser last Thursday.

“I happen to be part of a group of creative small businesses and asked a couple of them about starting a raffle, thinking we might raise a few hundred dollars. But then very quickly, lots of people got involved and offered to donate stuff. It’s just been amazing,” she said.

“Both the businesses donating prizes and the enthusiasm from people who are donating money and sharing details of the fundraiser on social media with their friends and family has been very overwhelming.”

Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto praised Mrs Schrodter for her compassion and taking the initiative to help those in need.

“To see the groundswell of support from local businesses that have come out of this raffle is absolutely inspiring,” he said.

“I’d like to sincerely thank all local businesses who have donated something to the raffle and I look forward to seeing the fundraising tally continue to increase.”

Mr Dametto said the fundraiser was one of many similar efforts started by people across the country who felt the need to help those who had lost everything in the fires.

“I offer my deepest condolences to anyone who has lost property, loved ones and animals during this national tragedy,” he said.

“I have nothing less than complete admiration for our nation’s Rural Firefighters, Emergency Services and Australian Defence Force personnel for the role they have all played to help save lives and mitigate the risk during this time.”

To donate, do a Paypal money transfer to ash.shipway@gmail.com or visit St. Floral and Stripes Coffee at 202 Flinders Street, Townsville to purchase raffle tickets.

Raffle tickets, both online and paper, are $5 each.

All money raised will go the Red Cross.