RACQ CapRescue cannot continue what we do without the incredible support of the people of Central Queensland. Recently, two community organisations helped to make a real difference with incredibly successful fundraising events.
After a five-year break, The Old Station Fly-In & Heritage Show did not disappoint. On the last weekend in May over 12,000 people from all over the country attended the popular event. The community enjoyed the sights of over 200 aircraft including the new AW139 RACQ CapRescue helicopter which made its Fly-in debut.
CapRescue volunteers stepped up for the occasion and with record crowds in attendance on Saturday, they were swept off their feet, helping where they could with the Ambrose State School P&C BBQ, on the gate and in various other roles.
On Sunday, July 3rd the community reunited at the Old Station to celebrate the success of the day. RACQ CapRescue Executive Director Mark Fewtrell was in attendance accepting the generous donation from the committee.
“We thank The Old Station Fly-In and Heritage Show for another outstanding result for our rescue service. Thanks also to the volunteers, sponsors, supporters, and attendees of the event. Without you all this fantastic result would not have been possible,” Mr Fewtrell said.
On the other side of our region, the Capricorn Coast, The Country Music group was rocking the stage at the Yeppoon Town Hall. For over 10 years The Country Music Group has supported RACQ CapRescue by entertaining a crowd that keeps coming back with Val and the Sidekicks, visiting musicians and special guest artists.
These “retired” musos present an afternoon of fun and dancing for a dedicated group of music lovers from around Central Queensland. To date, they have managed to raise over $70,000 for CapRescue. Including the presentation of an $18,000 cheque on Sunday.
Organiser Val Jacobsen said it all started as just a Jam session in 2004 with people wandered in off the streets and threw in a dollar for entry.
“Now we have up to 19 musicians on the day and they are all very experienced, in their twilight years, and know how to entertain,” said Mrs Jacobsen
“We picked CapRescue because they have not only looked after a couple of my family members, but we also hear them fly over and know that they’re out there doing great things rescuing people.”
For many, many years, both events have raised vital funds for RACQ CapRescue. The team at RACQ CapRescue would like to say a massive thank you to the event organisers, committees, volunteers, sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees of both events for their ongoing support. The funds received from community events such as these, help keep RACQ CapRescue saving the lives of Central Queenslanders.