THE Berriwillock community will join together on Thursday night for their annual Good Friday Appeal fundraiser.
The town has raised $491,641 since 2001, but their fundraising efforts date back to the mid-1900s.
Local residents Max and Kate Nunn have been involved with the annual fundraiser for many years.
While they’ve watched the town’s population decline over time, Berriwillock has proved size doesn’t matter when it comes to making a difference.
“People are very generous,” Mrs Nunn said. “It’s incredible really.”
With a population of 180, Berriwillock has gained a reputation as a generous town when it comes to digging deep for the annual appeal and statistically, the town is regional Victoria’s top performer per capita.
Off the back of a record-breaking fundraising total last year, when an incredible $43,000 was raised by the town, this year the Nunn family would like to see a different record break.
“This year we’d like to see more people come out to Berriwillock on the night and show their support for our town and see firsthand what it’s all about,” Mr Nunn said.
“Last year we raised $43,000 but only had 40 people bidding at the auction. The atmosphere is outrageous, and we would love to see people from Swan Hill and surrounding towns come along for lots of fun and a bit of laughter.”
Mr Nunn said he had been out and about pounding the pavement and had secured some fantastic goodies for this year’s auction, including accommodation vouchers, memorabilia, gift packs, homewares, meat packs, pet food, wine and food hampers.
He said local businesses and the community were very generous when it came to donating to such a worthwhile cause, noting everyone had been touched by the work undertaken at The Royal Children’s Hospital.
“The hospital is phenomenal and we’re so lucky to have that facility and be able to help make a difference,” Mr Nunn said.
“It changes your life walking through that hospital.”
While the Thursday night auction has become a tradition at Berriwillock, Mr Nunn remained hopeful the event would continue well into the foreseeable future.
“We’re never disappointed and we’re always so thrilled with the generosity,” Mr Nunn said.
“Every little bit helps.”
The auction will take place at Berriwillock’s Golden Crown Hotel from 7pm.
WHAT: Berriwillock’s Good Friday Appeal auction and fundraiser
WHEN: Thursday night from 7pm
WHERE: Golden Crown Hotel, Berriwillock
