Over 300 people of all ages converged on the Bundarra Golf Club from throughout the district for a major fundraising effort in support of the Rohrlach family on Sunday, June 10. The ultimate aim is to purchase a new van for quadriplegic mother of two, Rachel. Cliff Wright Motors donated a disabled vehicle wheelchair lift, making the task of transporting Rachel easier for her dedicated carers.
Many Armidale and Uralla locals were moved by the Rohrlach story. A keen amateur cycling pack and the Armidale Ex-Services Club led a considerable business sector response.
Seven riders and a support crew did an 85km charity bike ride from Armidale to Bundarra through Booralong, Longford, Baldeslie and Laura. The riders were Stu Hutton, Stew Meatheringham, Victor Moar, James Newberry-Dupe, John Hiscox, Simon Smith and Tony Spiller. The support crew was Mark McDermott and Kevin Dupe. James reportedly showed ‘true grit’, while Victor entertained with his dismount. John Hiscox described the generosity they encountered as an overwhelming display of community.
The riders were able to present a cheque of $7448. Mark McDermott donated a South Sydney (NRL) centenary jersey that sold for $2200.
New England Solar Power has donated a ‘grid connect system’ to be installed on Rachel’s roof in Bundarra.
The nine hole golf Ambrose, raffles, bike ride and the ‘off the trailer’ charity auction, together with fundraising in Inverell (particularly at the AFL game on Saturday) have raised a total of over $30,000 to date.
Cash donations can still be deposited directly to the Bundarra Lions Club account: BSB 062 556 – account number: 0090 5998.
Rachel is a loving mother, trapped in a body that cannot move by a paralysing stroke 20 years ago. Unable to talk, Rachel can communicate by looking up for yes and down for no or gesturing with her eyes to spell out messages. She has two sons, Kieron (20) and Liam (6). On April 16 this year, Chris Rohrlach died of a massive heart attack while helping neighbours to muster cattle.
Chris’ best mate, Danny Poulsen, said the amazing fundraising and community atmosphere on Sunday further demonstrated that this is a great part of the world to call home.
Story: Gary Fry
