Varied Coast effort to aid fire victims

 March 13th, 2009

From: http://www.goldcoast.com.au/article/2009/03/13/60215_gold-coast-news.html 

A FARMER, a dancer and an NRL Titan walk into the Gold Coast Arts Centre.

It sounds more like the opening line of a joke, but the scenario became a reality when the three came together to help promote a benefit concert in which organisers hope to raise more than $20,000 for the Red Cross Victorian Bushfire Appeal.

More than 300 local entertainers will take to the Gold Coast Arts Centre stage at 7pm next Friday, March 20, for the Gold Coast Gala Variety Benefit Concert.

Fundraising efforts have been boosted considerably by dozens of local businesses donating raffle prizes.

Gold Coast Titans star Ashley Harrison is one of 17 players who have signed a football to donate to the raffle.

Gold Coast City councillor Jan Grew, who is a member of the Gold Coast Eisteddfod board, said it was already a highly prized item.

``There are a fair few people who want to win that,'' she said.

``All the prizes are great and will be offered alongside the major prize of a weekend for two valued at $1700 at the stunning Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat in Tallebudgera Valley.

``The momentum of the concert has been amazing and we can't thank David and all the prize donors enough for their contributions.''

Despite still struggling from the effects of the drought, former reality TV star David Graham, known as Farmer Dave, donated a Jumbuck Lamb Box to the raffle.

Mr Graham said he felt compelled to help raise funds for victims of the Victorian bushfire, especially after the father of a close friend died a few days ago from injuries sustained on Black Saturday.

``I have firsthand knowledge of what's going on down there with what my friend Melinda has been through,'' he said.

``She said there has been so much community spirit and people letting her know that there's someone there.

``These people still don't have homes and you can't just rebuild these big holes in their community overnight.

``You have to help out where you can, that's the main thing.''

Next Friday's benefit concert is a joint initiative of the Arts Centre and Gold Coast Eisteddfod.

Cr Grew said organisers were hoping to sell 1000 tickets to the event.

``If we sell the whole 1000 tickets then that will be $20,000 for the bushfire appeal and then money generated from the raffle will be added on as well,'' she said.

``The great thing is that everyone, including performers, has donated their time and effort.''

Admission is $20 each and tickets are available from the Gold Coast Arts Centre Box Office.