Cobram-Barooga supports record-breaking Good Friday Appeal

The Cobram-Barooga appeal raised $42,306, with Cobram CFA bringing in $26,484.50 over the course of Good Friday, while other local areas also saw record tallies.

From tin shaking to raffles, collection groups, fundraisers, auctions and events, regional and rural Victoria alone contributed an impressive $5,428,009.

Good Friday Appeal chair Penny Fowler said communities across Victoria had united to make a huge difference for sick children and their families.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to every volunteer, donor, fundraiser and supporter who came together to make this year’s appeal a remarkable success,” Ms Fowler said.

“Your generosity and dedication is truly remarkable.”

Key highlights from this year’s notable contributions include the CFA, which marked 80 years of formation and 74 years of fundraising for the Good Friday Appeal.

Its dedicated volunteers raised an incredible $1,888,912 this year, bringing their lifetime total to over $41 million.

This year’s donations will support vital programs and advancements, including extending child life therapy into the emergency department, purchasing specialised medical equipment such as ultrasound machines, supporting regional health services across Victoria for the second year, and investing in critical research and treatments for conditions such as epilepsy, sepsis, type 1 diabetes and acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

Additionally, this year’s appeal will support the RCH’s art therapy program, which provides children and families with a creative and supportive outlet to express and explore the emotional impact of hospitalisation, illness and treatment.

Good Friday Appeal executive director Rebecca Cowan said the remarkable success of this year’s appeal would not have been possible without the extraordinary generosity of communities across Victoria, many of whom donated or fundraised because of their personal connection to the Royal Children’s Hospital.

“This incredible achievement is a testament to the Victorian spirit,” she said.

“Whether you donated, attended Kids’ Day Out, joined Run for the Kids, participated in local fundraisers, or tuned into Channel 7’s Telethon, your contribution has made a difference.

“Thank you for helping us ensure the Royal Children’s Hospital can continue providing world-class care.”