By Matthew Sims
Woodlands Park Retirement Village in Berwick was awash with yellow balloons and filled with the smell of brewing tea and the sound of community, as part of resident Colleen Astbury’s Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser on Thursday 25 May.
However, the day was also a sad occasion for Colleen and her family, with the event held in honour of her sister Janette, who died on Valentine’s Day earlier this year and her mother Betty.
The entire village community came together to support the cause, which has so far raised more than $5000.
Ms Astbury said her family had been encouraging and reassuring her to host the event.
“I am trying to raise as much money as possible to fight a cause that took two of my loved ones,” she said.
“I want to thank my children, my grandchildren, my sister, her husband and her kids, my little sister’s son Shaun, his wife Jess and kids Aston and Rosie for all the help and support they have given me this year.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to say a massive thank you to Lendlease for the continued support and each and every local business that have supported us by donating items to raffle off or food.”
The event also featured a special dance from Colleen’s granddaughter Tamika and an auction of a number of items.
Ms Astbury said she had presented the cheque to the Cancer Council every year alongside her sister.
“We have all been touched by cancer in one way or another, some are fighting the fight, others lost the fight and some are lucky enough to beat the dreaded disease,” she said.
“Although this year is a lot harder for me doing it alone, I have had support from so many people.
“I started this journey with my little sister and will continue to raise much needed funds to assist in the ongoing research for cancer, in the hope that one day, we have a cure for this disease.”
To donate to the cause, visit www.biggestmorningtea.com.au/fundraisers/ColleenAstbury
