Big bucks for charity

Mayor Graeme Moore and Brian Paynter. Pictures: DONNA OATES 128524

By KATELYN PINAL

MORE than 300 people attended the Casey Cardinia Foundation’s annual charity dinner on Friday night at the Cardinia Cultural Centre.
It was the first year the foundation welcomed its fund-raising partner the City of Casey and it was a great night enjoyed by all.
Foundation chairman Brian Paynter said he was extremely happy with the way the night unfolded.
“It was fantastic, a brilliant night. It’s all to get the community together for a great cause.”
At the dinner, two major announcements were made.
First, that the foundation would be donating $10,000 to the Touched by Olivia Foundation to help build a playground for all abilities in Casey.
Mr Paynter said that it was a much-needed addition.
“Children with disabilities find it hard to get the best use out of playgrounds because they aren’t designed for these children.
“This playground is designed to assist children with disabilities,” he said.
The Casey Cardinia Foundation will also be donating $5000 to Outlook in Pakenhan which started a choir for people all abilities in conjuction with Jonathan Welch at the School of Hard Knocks.
Members from both organisations gave speeches.
Entertainment was provided by Mark Andrew, who got the crowd up and dancing with his impersonations of Elvis and other famous characters.
There was also speeches from AFL commentating royalty Sandy Roberts.
Mr Paynter said the night raised about $50,000 but that organisers were still waiting on the final tally.