A close partnership between Toomuc Fire Brigade and South Eastern Chrome Bumpers car enthusiasts club helped raise $8000 on Good Friday for the Royal Children’s Hospital Appeal.
With Bunnings closed, between 800 and 900 cars converged on its Pakenham car park. Drivers and viewers alike willingly opened their wallets to generously donate with all money collected by Toomuc members.
“The cars on display were people’s pride and joy,” said Captain Brad Kelly. “There were hot rods, old US cars and some cars on tow trucks so it was quite a mix.
“We asked for five dollars for entry but a lot of people were far more generous. Float n Coffee donated money from each coffee sold and we also had an ice cream truck, a fast food vendor and a jumping castle so it was a good day out.”
Toomuc brigade holds an event about eight times a year with the car club and money raised usually goes back to the brigade.
“It’s a group that tends to align with their local brigade,” continued Brad. “They came to us in the first instance and we’ve become very close them. Normally their events are on a Friday night and we’ll have about 400 cars there.
“Good Friday, though, we had about 15000 people through. We definitely look forward to doing this again. Thanks to all the sponsors and the generous people.”
Photos by Keith Pakenham
Author: Leith Hillard