By Callan Date
SEEING is believing and Berwick locals Brad Battin and Ben Owens are doing their bit to help restore the eyesight of more than 1000 people in developing countries around the world.
Both Mr Battin and Mr Owens are key members of a group that is volunteering its time to organise the Cocktail for a Cause night this Sunday at Docklands.
The fundraising evening is part of The Fred Hollows Foundation – a charity group Mr Battin has been involved in since the start of this year.
The former Berwick Junior Football Club coach said one of the main reasons he decided to assist the foundation was the help they provide to the indigenous communities throughout the Northern Territory.
“I considered many options to donate my time but The Fred Hollows Foundation does remarkable work around the globe with very little recognition,” Mr Battin said.
Mr Battin, a police officer based in Prahran, said he hoped the night would raise enough money to go towards treating 1200 people with avoidable eye diseases.
“Every person who has their sight restored also learns to take care of themselves and their community.”
Mr Owens is currently completing his Duke of Edinburgh award and wanted to get involved and help out the charitable organisation.
The Flinders Community Christian College student hopes to organise further fundraising events for the foundation on a local level.
The cocktail night will feature several celebrities including music guru Ian ‘Molly’ Meldrum and Blue Heelers star Samantha Tolj. Anyone wishing to attend the special night and support the work of Mr Battin, Mr Owens and The Fred Hollows Foundation can contact 9864 9369.
