WHEN Jessica Trew and Naomi Hodge found out their friend Hollie Ross’s husband had died tragically in a farming accident, they knew they had to bring his family back home to Orange.
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Orange man Dale Kirchen had been working in rural Queensland when he was involved in a quad-bike accident on a farm near Winton.
He died last Saturday, leaving behind Hollie, also from Orange, and two children, aged two and four.
When Ms Trew and Mrs Hodge heard of Mr Kirchen’s death, they set up a fund and a Facebook page to help raise money to bring Ms Ross back to Orange, which Ms Trew said was very important.
“She hasn’t got any family or friends up in Queensland, she’s got no support network,” she said.
“She hasn’t had any time to grieve yet.”
A trivia night fundraiser to provide transport, rent and food costs was suggested by friend and Newstead Bowling Club bar manager Carissa Southcombe, who helped organise the function room and offered to donate finger food donated for the night.
The trivia night will be held on May 24 at Newstead Bowling Club and will include an auction and games. Entry costs $20 per person.
Ms Trew said the support from the Orange community had been overwhelming.
“About 80 per cent of the donations have come from the Facebook page we set up. We’ve had everything from cash to gift vouchers, goods and even a rental property has been offered,” she said.
“We’re just so grateful for the support everyone has given Hollie. We just want to bring her back home.”
