Deniliquin’s Murray to Moyne Cycle Relay team works with hospital staff to determine what fundraising should be spent on each year, but team member Matt Tubb said suggestions from the public are also welcome.
“Our recent donations have helped purchase two palliative care beds for the hospital, which are utilised often, and we’ve received some positive feedback,” Mr Tubb said.
“Each of those beds costs about $27,000.
“But that’s what all this is about - investing in our community.
“The reason we do this ride and fundraise is for the Deni Hospital and those who use it - now or in the future.
“The money we raise goes directly to support locals, and not absorbed into the Murrumbidgee Local Health District budget.
“We’re keen for people to nominate a few ideas of what the hospital may need.”
The Murray to Moyne team raised $10,000 from last year’s major fundraising event at the Deniliquin Boat Club, and hope to collect even more when they return to the Boat Club for this year’s fundraiser next Friday night.
“The hospital’s social club will be coming along on the night, and we know of other businesses who are using it as an opportunity to have their staff Christmas party,” Mr Tubb said.
“We’d love as many people to come as possible.
“The support from businesses has been great so far. We have almost 30 items for the silent auction already, and there will be more to come.
“Anyone interested in donating is certainly welcome to get in touch.”
Starting at 6pm on November 29, the fundraiser will also include entertainment from Echuca-Moama musician Jaymi Clancy, other entertainment, food vans, and the bar will be open.
If you cannot attend but still want to donate to the Murray to Moyne effort, go to https://www.gofundme.com/f/deniliquin-hospital-fundraiser-murray-to-moyne-2024.
The annual Murray to Moyne Cycle Relay was founded in 1987.
It is a 520km 24-hour cycling relay event, and since its inception, participants have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for Victorian and interstate health services.
It will take place in April next year.
Anyone interested in joining the Deniliquin Murray to Moyne team - as a rider or to support the effort in other ways - is welcome to contact Mr Tubb on 0407 432 710 or Graeme Butcher on 0409 712 710.