Simon says dig deep for Good Friday Appeal

A local fundraising record is expected to be set for this year’s Good Friday Appeal, according to Phillip Island’s new area manager.

Cowes resident and CFA volunteer Simon Hartley said while he has big shoes to fill – taking over from previous managers Helen and Reg Excell (see separate story) – he expected his inaugural year to be a bumper tally.

“Last year the CFA raised $400 compared to the average $12,000 because Covid restricted fundraising to online only, so given people didn’t donate last year we expect them to dig deep this year,” Simon said.

“But also given tourists are travelling locally we expect Phillip Island to be extra busy, which means more people will also donate. It would be nice to have a record to support the work of The Royal Children’s Hospital.”

Simon said the Excell’s retirement after 20 years in the role will not be the only major change to Phillip Island’s Good Friday Appeal fundraiser.

The Cowes heritage centre will no longer be used as headquarters because of Covid protocols.

“So people wanting to donate should not go to the heritage centre,” he said.

Instead donations should be made to tin rattlers on street corners or roving the streets, with more volunteer rattlers expected to be helping this year. In addition, donations can be made at the CFA marquee outside the IGA on the corner of Settlement Road and Thompson Avenue.

CFA trucks will be visiting caravan parks around the island.

Simon, a Phillip Island Fire brigade volunteer for 18 years, is no stranger to the Good Friday Appeal having organised the CFA tin rattling for the past decade.

So while he was aware of the Excell’s legacy, he was confident in managing the role.

“Helen has been mentoring me and CFA members and is still in the background this year,” said Simon, who is a driver with South Coast Taxis and who used to work at Retravision Cowes. They are both incredible people."

Phillip Island has raised over $685,000 since the Good Friday Appeal began 90 years ago.

Subscribe online for unlimited access to full editions, breaking news alerts, sport and historical files. 
FREE 7 day trial on all new subscriptions.