Barraba puts $31,000 behind bus fundraiser

Friday 8 July 2011

The staff and volunteers of Barraba Multi Purpose Service (MPS) would like to thank the Barraba community following a successful first round of fundraising for a new Barraba MPS bus.

Many volunteer groups, business and individuals have so far contributed a whopping $31,000 to the cause since the fundraising began in 2010. The fundraising committee is hoping to raise $140,000 by mid-2012 to replace the old 12-seater Barraba MPS bus with a larger 22-seater bus.

Barraba MPS Health Service Manager Cathy Stein said all who had contributed to the fundraising efforts so far should be very proud to support a worthy cause.

“Many community members have rallied to support the worthy cause since our small fundraising committee was set up,” Ms Stein said. “We have been humbled by the many donations contributed so far.

“Our current bus has served us well, but after assessing its age, condition and the cost of maintenance we realised we needed a plan to replace it in the next few years. 

“We know it’s going to take a while to raise $140,000, but we know with lots of effort and the support of the community we will reach our target,” Ms Stein said.

A wide range of clients use the existing bus, including Day Centre clients who catch the bus to and from the centre most days of the week, the Barraba Men’s Group and younger people in the community who have a disability.

The bus is the primary mode of transport for the high-care residents of Garvin House. Clients also use the bus to travel to activities such as church, bingo, craft, cards and local doctors’ appointments.

“We’re lucky to have so many people in this community that are willing to help us buy a new bus so we can maintain a good quality of life for the residents and clients of Barraba MPS,” Ms Stein said.

Ms Stein also thanked the hard working committee for driving the fundraising and the community for supporting the fundraising activities.

“The committee, made up of volunteers from Richardson House, Garvin House, the Day Centre, hospital auxiliary and Barraba MPS staff, have been integral to the co-ordination of many activities and they should be proud of their good work to date,” Ms Stein said.

If you would like to support the fundraising effort please call Barraba MPS on (02) 6782 2500.

Contact: Emma Gibbs

Phone: 6767 7137