THE small but dedicated group of volunteers that is the Orange branch of Royal Far West raised over $2300 through their mid-year raffle to help sick children in regional and remote NSW.
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Twenty-five prizes donated from Orange businesses were up for grabs, including a three-piece outdoor furniture setting and patio gas heater from Bunnings Warehouse as first prize.
Last financial year, the group of 23 raised in excess of $15,000, which went towards the work of Royal Far West, a non-government organisation that provides thousands of children each year with specialist care at a centre in Manly, Sydney.
The group’s treasurer Florence Gleeson experienced the care of Royal Far West first-hand when she was just eight years old, after she contracted measles and developed ear problems as a child.
“Out in the outback, they don’t have the specialists we’ve got,” Ms Gleeson said.
“It’s completely free for the children and the parents who need to go along.”
Parents can stay at accommodation provided by the service for as long as their child needs care, and teachers are also provided so children do not fall behind in school.
A mobile clinic service is also funded by the organisation through Ronald McDonald House, called the Ronald McDonald Royal Far West Care Mobile, which travels to towns in rural NSW with specialists on deck who provide check-ups to children.
The Orange branch is looking for more volunteers, and welcomes anyone who is interested to join them at their monthly meeting every second Tuesday at the Ophir Tavern at 3pm.
alexandra.king@fairfaxmedia.com.au