Record lifeline for Goldfields organisations and community groups from Rotary Club’s fundraising efforts

The Rotary Club of Boulder’s annual online radio auction continues to reach new heights, with a new fundraising record set this month. This year’s auction, which raises vital funds for local programs and community groups, pulled in $235,000 — the largest sum in its 39-year history. Radio auction chairman Stuart Fleming said the club was overwhelmed with support from the Goldfields community, as a record $107,000 was generated from sponsorship alone. “The community always gets behind the (radio auction) and we keep setting new goals,” he said. “It means that we can guarantee all of those beneficiaries at least some of the funds they’ve applied for. “But it also enables us to go back and revisit some that missed out.” The fundraising initiative this month reached the $3 million milestone. “It’s a culmination of 39 years’ worth of blood, sweat and tears,” Mr Fleming said. “In 1986 we raised $11,000, and now in 2024 we raised $235,000 which shows how it has grown and become an institution in the Goldfields’ social calendar.” A live and silent auction took place at the radio auction launch party on November 1 before more than 240 donated items went under the virtual hammer ranging from art, memorabilia and automotive accessories to goods and service vouchers. The fundraising efforts were celebrated last Tuesday night during the club’s beneficiaries evening. This year’s fundraiser supported 24 local organisations and projects including livestreaming equipment for Jack and Haz Productions, outdoor play equipment for Full Circle Therapies, and a wheelchair-accessible vehicle for Wheels for Hope. “It’s great to get all of the beneficiaries together in one room and get them talking about what the money is going towards, what projects they’re doing, and how that further benefits the Goldfields community,” Mr Fleming said. The club also supports its own projects through the fundraising including the Goldfields Family Assistance Fund, community defibrillator project, Grab N Go bags, and high school scholarships. Tickets for the Goldfields Family Assistance Fund raffle are still available for purchase via the club’s website. The raffle will be drawn on December 1, with lucky winners to share in $19,000 worth of cash and travel vouchers.