The Glenaroua community held another successful Woolly Cup on Saturday, with nearly 100 locals gathering together for the highly anticipated fundraising event.
Organised by the Glenaroua CFA brigade, the annual sheep race has been one of the most exciting events on the calendar for the past 15 years.
Nationals Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland was the MC for the event for her second year running, saying the race is always a highlight for the local community.
“The Woolly Cup is one of the most entertaining community events across our wonderful region. It is good old family fun,” Ms Cleeland said.
“It not only brings the entire Glenaroua community together, but it also raises essential funds for the local fire brigade. On top of housing the brigade, the fire hall acts as a community hub for locals to gather for functions.
“I want to extend my thanks and congratulations to CFA Captain Damian Laffan, Secretary and Treasurer Pam Beerens, Cheryl Greenshields and Leigh the auctioneer for another fantastic event.
“Volunteer-led events like this are so crucial to the community spirit of our regional towns and I will always be proud to support them.
“My family had a wonderful night, with my son’s slippery hands spending $400 at the sheep auction. While he’ll be doing a lot of chores around the house to cover the costs, I’m glad it went to a great cause.
“Every year it seems that the community is getting more generous than the last, and I’m so glad to see the support for this event and the local brigade get stronger each year.”
The Glenaroua CFA is expecting to raise close to $6000 from the race, with all funds going towards the local brigade, allowing for the purchase of new equipment, facilities, and essential repairs and maintenance for their vehicles.
Glenaroua CFA Secretary Pam Beerens said the event worked as a community outreach program for the brigade on top of being a crucial fundraiser.
“The Woolly Cup provides our brigade with the opportunity to share information about what we do and encourage members of the local community to join our brigade,” she said.
“You can never have too many volunteers.”
For those interested in volunteering with the Glenaroua CFA or wanting more information can contact Ms Beerens at 0427 516 863.
All sheep are supplied by a local farmer, are well cared for, and are returned following the race. No sheep were harmed, and a local veterinarian was in attendance to oversee the event.
