ON THE ROAD TO HELP
A convoy of cars left the Hills last week for a rural road trip with a difference.
The team represented the women’s service organisation Soroptimist International of the Hills and the destination was Coolah in the NSW Central West.
The motivation for the trip was to do something to help women involved with Coolah Central School which the club has supported in previous years through funding for a breakfast club and with scholarships to help disadvantaged students.
Although the SI team did take pamper packs to Coolah, the main aim was to host a high tea for women in the district to show support and also to provide “Coolah credit cards” through the new Coolah Chamber of Commerce to give to women doing it tough a much-needed boost.
Paying for the high tea to be made locally and buying more than 30 “Coolah Credit Cards” put money into local businesses which have been suffering with the knock-on effects of the prolonged drought.
One recipient said: “Everything given is really appreciated … it makes us realise that people care.”
Some had travelled up to 60 kms to attend the afternoon tea.
Janine Drummond said: “Their stories of courage and determination to survive this drought were an inspiration to all of us. One lady in particular had her life decimated, only two years ago, when a huge bush fire roared through the Warrumbungles destroying everything in its path, including the two houses on her property, their woolshed, all their fencing and 900 of their sheep. “
As well as staying overnight at the Black Stump Motel at Coolah, pre-loved clothing and shoes were dropped off at Op shops on the way at Lithgow and Mudgee and also at the C4C (Care for Coolah) charity shop which donates its profits back to the community.
The pamper pack donations and the funds to pay for the afternoon tea and Coolah gift cards was raised with funds from a Bunnings BBQ and a Fashion Parade. (see story)
