The small committee originally estimated they could raise about $250 000 in the aftermath of the devastating Sir Ivan Bush Fire if they managed to get roughly 100 head of cattle, feed them for 100 days at Alexander Downs, and then send them off to be slaughtered.
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After all this is what they do every year at the Merriwa Show for the Prime Cattle trial.
However, a game changing donation of grain could see the Merriwa-Sir Ivan Bush Fire appeal raise over a million dollars as now they have the capacity to feed 600 head in the feedlot.
The appeal is a joint initiative between the Merriwa Show Society and the local branch of NSW Farmers, with the support of the Alexander Downs feedlot. Representing these organisations is Pat Ryan, Tony Inder and Robert Gill and their original idea to replicate the local show society’s annual event has grown exponentially.
Mr Ryan says at the end of the first week they ended up with 250 head of cattle and then came the donation of 5000 tonnes of grain from a group of western grain growers. And, this means they can now set a new fundraising benchmark.
“Our expectation is, if we are able to raise the number of cattle by either direct donation or buying additional cattle with cash donations, with 600 head we will hopefully raise close to or in excess of $1 million,” Mr Ryan said.
For anyone interested in making cattle donations contact Tony Inder, Rockwell Livestock and Property, on 0427 485 100 or any other enquiries phone 0428 485 090.
NSW Farmers have provided the appeal with the facility to collect cash donations. This is for those people that aren’t in a position to supply cattle, but want to donate cash.
- Account Name: NSW Farmers’ Association Natural Disaster Relief Fund; BSB: 082-057; Account number: 18-215-7040; Bank: NAB.