WHEN trying to raise funds, there’s no better way for not-for-profit community groups and organisations to build up the bank then by hosting a good old-fashioned sausage sizzle.
However, buying a barbecue big enough to cater for the masses is often financially out of reach for the volunteers.
Hervey Bay RSL Community Engagement Officer Sarah Bailey Wilkinson said the club recognised the demand and filled the gap by purchasing the RSL Community BBQ Trailer 12 months ago, which any not-for-profit community groups or organisations can use for free.
The $15,000 set up comes complete with an eight-burner barbecue, two pull-out eskies, a table and a marquee.
“Hosting a sausage sizzle is always a great way for volunteers to raise funds … who can resist the smell of sausages and onions cooking on the barbecue,” Sarah said.
“It’s a great set-up, easy to use and all they need to supply is the gas bottle and cooking utensils.”
The Fraser Coast Memorial Fishing Club is one of many not-for-profit organisations to cook up a fundraising storm, including a sausage sizzle at BCF late last year.
President John Lindsay said the club raised over $300 on the day.
John said being able to hire the barbecue for free meant that all the funds raised could go towards keeping the club running and subsidising activities for its predominately senior members.
“It has helped considerably as we were not in a financial state to buy a barbecue, so it was of great benefit to be able to use the RSL trailer,” he said.
“Most of our members are pensioners and can’t afford to splash out on big things so we fundraise to help them get out and about, maintain an interest and get to go fishing.
“It just gets the old blokes out rather than staying at home. We get out in the fresh air; it’s good exercise and we sit down in the afternoon when we get back and just have a good yarn.
“It’s great mentally for everyone to have that interaction.
“We are very grateful to the RSL.”
Any not-for-profit community groups or organisations can book the barbecue trailer by phoning Sarah on 41977444.
Members of the Fraser Coast Memorial Fishing Club sizzle up a storm on the RSL Community Barbecue at a recent fundraising morning in front of BCF in Hervey Bay. Image courtesy of the Hervey Bay RSL.
