STUDENTS in years 8, 9 and 10 at Great Lakes College Tuncurry recently donated $350 to the Ronald McDonald Retreat in Forster to assist with its services.
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The students generated the funds through various fundraising activities including a crazy hair day which was judged by the retreat’s coordinator Rhiannon Curtis. Students also received prizes for the day which were donated by Forster McDonald’s.
The college’s SRC coordinator Janelle Evans said the students wanted to keep money within their local community and thought the retreat was a worthy organisation.
Ms Curtis said the money was a kind donation from the school and will be used to restock the retreat’s bedding supplies in time for the busy Christmas holiday period.
More volunteers needed to support work of retreat
SERIOUSLY ill children and their families have been finding some reprieve thanks to the Ronald McDonald Retreat in Forster.
The retreat has accommodated just over 800 families since it was established by Adam Sherman and Ross Presgrave eight years ago.
Situated opposite the clear waters of Wallis Lake behind the North Coast Caravan Park in Forster, the retreat offers four fully self contained cabins where families are able to stay for a maximum of seven days, free of charge. The retreat currently receives no government funding and relies purely on donations.
Rhiannon Curtis, who was recently appointed the Mid North Coast Ronald McDonald Family Retreat Coordinator and Community Engagement Coordinator, manages the operations of the Forster retreat.
She liaises with families before, during and after their stays, making sure they have everything they need for an enjoyable stay in the Great Lakes.
She said the accommodation allows families from out of town to have a well deserved break.
“It gives families a chance to get out of the cycle of doctors appointments and hospital visits while also allowing them to reconnect as a family.”
Ms Curtis is currently looking for local volunteers to help out with the day-to-day operations of the retreat such as liaising with families as well as assisting the organisation with community events.
Local businesses and groups are also being encouraged to contact her in regard to participating in a dinner program for families. Phone Rhiannon on 0428 301 088 for more information or visit the website: www.rmhc.org.au/forster-family-retreat
