In an incredible effort by St Joseph’s College Echuca, students and teachers have managed to raise a grand total of $7529 for the new cancer and wellness centre.
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Teacher Rachael Williams drove the fundraising efforts but there was a core group of Year 7 students who really devoted their time to the cause.
Allison O’Brien, art teacher at St Joseph’s, is incredibly proud of the students’ accomplishments.
“The students were so dedicated. It’s particularly amazing to see our students supporting the community.”
As to why the students were inspired to take on the fundraising efforts, Ms O’Brien said: “A lot of families in the school are affected by cancer. It’s something that the students are passionate about”.
“The students love giving back to the community by using their creativity and talents to make a difference in people’s lives.”
A portion of the money was raised by teachers and students who ran market stalls where they sold handcrafted items like key rings and plant holders.
Funds were also raised by holding a fashion parade event at the Moama Bowling Club in November with African fashion designer Nicole Dilubenzi and local Indigenous designer Vicki Walker.
Lyn Jeffreson, clinical liaison project officer for Echuca Regional Health, said that it was great to see the town come together and support the cause.
Ms Jeffreson commends the students for their creative efforts.
It just goes to show that “people really value their healthcare,” she said.
The build for the new Echuca cancer centre is currently well under way — the building now has a roof, the bricks have been laid and internal wiring has been installed.
With the help of the community, more than $1 million has been raised towards ERH’s $1.3 million goal.
The $8.3 million centre will be ready for operation in mid-late 2022.