ONE of Moree’s best-loved, not-for-profit organisations, Gwydir Industries, is closer to establishing a girls’ administration training area after receiving a sizeable donation from Moree Rugby Club.

Rugby club committee member, Maddie Watts, and ladies’ day committee members, Meg Dunford and Maddy Hunt, last week proudly handed Gwydir Industries board president, Bill Crawford, a cheque for $41,000.

The rugby club last month hosted Ladies Day at Weebolla rugby grounds, with all money raised earmarked for Gwydir Industries.

“Ladies day was fantastic and the money raised for Gwydir Industries is just incredible – that amount doubled our expectations. We’re absolutely over the moon,” Bill Crawford said.

He said Gwydir Industries plans to add administration training, gardening, sewing and artwork to its already long list of services.

“This donation has allowed us to start creating a new workspace, specifically aimed at females,” Mr Crawford said.

“Gwydir Industries is such a good organisation to be a part of, and it’s really heartwarming to see everybody get behind us and raise this sort of money.

“The local community always backs people looking to do things for Moree. We live in an incredible town,” he said.

“Last year’s fundraising allowed us to get more staff for Gwydir Industries, and since then the whole operation has run really smoothly.

“Everyone here is having a good time, and this new funding from the rugby club means we can upskill staff, and offer something different,” Mr Crawford said.

(at back from left) Mekayla Phelps, Antionette McNamara, Bill Crawford, Jhy O’Neile, Errol Carter, Maddie Watts, Maddy Hunt and Meg Dunford at Gwydir Industries on Thursday (Image Copyright).

Over the last five years the huge day of rugby, live entertainment and socialising has raised more than $140,000 for local charities and not-for-profit organisations.

Maddie Watts said presenting a cheque to Gwydir Industries with proceeds raised at the club’s biggest social day of the year was uplifting.

“Something like this is pretty special,” Ms Watts said.

“Gwydir Industries is a great cause and is an organisation close to the hearts of a lot of people.

“The staff here are amazing, and do a great job, and it’s fantastic to be able to give back to a local organisation.

“Everyone who attended from Gwydir Industries thoroughly enjoyed the day out and made people smile . . . they just do so much for everyone.”

Ms Watts said Ladies’ Day didn’t disappoint.

“The crowd was incredible, with more than 150 ladies attending the ladies’ day area. It was one of those special days, and always is. Moree is a very generous town. It always has been – and always will be,” she smiled.

Words and Image: Bill Poulos