Devenish, Dookie & District Good Friday Appeal among top fundraisers

The DDDGFA raised $235,662 of that, making it the third-highest fundraiser.

DDDGFA president Paul Durden said the result was “magnificent”, and it could not have happened without support from volunteers and committee members.

“We knew we’d be up there, but we didn’t know we’d get third again,” he said.

The DDDGFA fundraises all year round, but Mr Durden said its biggest events — the Good Friday show ’n’ shine and music day, and online auction — boosted its total.

Mr Durden said he thought the group would have raised more money in 2024 with $64,000 of auction items that they didn’t have this year.

However, with the help of businesses from around the region, and an anonymous $10,000 donation on Wednesday, April 16, the group beat its $193,240 amount by $42,222.

“It’s a great achievement by everyone involved,” Mr Durden said.

“I think we’ve built a really good trusted brand that everyone wants to get behind.”

Mr Durden said the group was on track to surpass $1 million raised in total during its 10th year of fundraising in 2026.

After a well-earned break, organisers will start fundraising again in October with their lamb and cattle drive.

The GFA has raised over $492 million since 1931 to support the Royal Children’s Hospital and regional health services.

This year’s GFA with the RCH made a record-breaking $3 million investment in regional health services, to ensure children in rural and regional Victoria have access to world-class medical care closer to home.

The funding will go towards 41 health services across Loddon Mallee, Barwon South West, Gippsland, Grampians and Hume — including Goulburn Valley Health — with 35 receiving support from the GFA for the first time.

GFA chair Penny Fowler said the generosity of regional Victoria was truly inspiring.

“From small towns with big hearts, to major regional centres, communities have united to make a huge difference for sick children and their families,” she said.

“Their unwavering support highlights the compassion and dedication of regional volunteers, donors and supporters.

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who made this year’s record-breaking success possible.”

GFA executive director Rebecca Cowan said the record-breaking total was a reflection of the passion and commitment of regional communities.

“We are continually inspired by the dedication and generosity of regional Victorians,” she said.

“We are thrilled that this year’s appeal will help strengthen regional health services, allowing families to access world-class care without needing to travel far from their homes.

“From creative fundraising initiatives to tireless tin shakers, every effort has made a real difference for sick children and their families.”