Vivid’s Oaks Day fundraiser a driving success

Guests enjoyed bubbles on arrival, all-day grazing, as well as hot and cold finger food.

An array of fashion prizes were on offer, while raffles and the TAB provided plenty of opportunities for people to enjoy a winner.

The luncheon takes place on the third day of the annual Melbourne Cup Carnival.

The highlight of a terrific day was the generous donation of a 12-seater bus to Vivid from the Moama Bowling Club (MBC).

MBC sales and marketing manager George Santos, a special guest at the luncheon, shared the news, much to the delight of all in attendance.

“We were aware that today’s event was aimed at raising funds to purchase a used bus to transport Vivid clients between venues,” Mr Santos said.

“We are also aware that it is becoming increasingly difficult to raise funds for such causes in the current economic climate, so we decided that this would be a good time to assist an organisation that supports so many, so compassionately, in our community.

“As we are trading in our three Courtesy Shuttles for new ones, our team decided not to trade-in one of the Mercedes Benz vehicles, but rather donate it to Vivid so they could achieve their aim of providing this invaluable service a little faster.

“The shuttle is valued at $40,000 as a trade-in, features 12 very comfortable seats and has a great deal of life still left in it, as it has always been meticulously maintained.

“We wish the team at Vivid all the best as they continue to provide specialised care for so many individuals in our twin towns and beyond.”

Vivid chief executive Scott Alexander said the organisation was humbled by the donation.

“The generous support of Moama Bowling Club means the world to us,” he said.

“We are grateful for the bus donation and for being part of our cause.

“The additional vehicle will increase the capacity of our transport service, providing adults with disability access to daily activities, appointments, and supported employment opportunities and reduce rural isolation.”

Mr Alexander also thanked everyone who supported the Oaks Day function, which returned following a three-year break caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and last year’s floods.

“It was with a mixture of relief and excitement that we were able to bring back our annual Oaks Day fundraiser,” he said.

“And we found that we picked up where we left off, thanks to the enthusiastic support of so many individuals and businesses.

“We are fortunate to live and work in a community which is so supportive of people with disability.”