Newling Gardens Retirement Village raises over $12,000 for drought-affected farmers

Newling Gardens Retirement Village’s recent drought fundraiser raised over $12,000 for drought-affected farming communities.

The sum raised at the 15^th August event was then matched dollar-for-dollar by Rotary International.

Residents baked an array of savoury and sweet foods to sell, many local businesses and residents donated raffle prizes, and a sausage sizzle was enjoyed by all.

Armidale Mayor Simon Murray drew the raffle prizes and entertainment was provided by local singer-guitarist Peter Stanley and Newling Gardens’ resident bag-piper, Gordon Ellis.

The appeal was also supported by a number of RetireAustralia’s South Australian villages, which made generous donations, including $610 from Wisteria Grove in Adelaide.

Brian Bremner, chairman of the Newling Gardens’ social committee, said many residents’ rural backgrounds meant the issue is close to their hearts.

“It’s is absolutely desperate here – there are a lot of farms going to the wall,” he said.

“Farmers are not only losing their stock hand over fist but are finding it hard to even feed themselves.”

Newling Gardens offers relaxed and secure retirement living in peaceful surroundings. Visit retireaustralia.com.au/newling-gardens for more information.