Temora has once again exceeded expectations with the generosity of the district with donations to the annual Salvation army Red Shield Appeal (RSA) once again surpassing the target of $15,000. So far, the total stands at over $18,000 with more to be tallied from Coolamon, Ganmain and Ardlethan, which form part of the Temora Zone. Chairman of the Temora Zone RSA, mayor Rick Firman said that the community had once again showed that even in tough times there was always a capacity to help others. “We’ve received anything from $1,800 to coins – all gratefully received,” Cr Firman said. “Everyone is contributing in some way whether it's they've chosen to volunteer or donated. “This further amplifies the tremendous spirit of generosity of our Temora Zone communities, and why we have been rewarded by Salvation Army HQ as the most generous Zone communities in all of Australia (per head of population).” Temora Zone RSA Director, Auxiliary Lieutenant Caleb Smith said that he was quite surprised, because it's been a rough year for a lot of people financially. “But people were still extremely generous. It did not seem lower than this time last year, which really took me by surprise, Aux Lt Smith said. “Another excellent result for the Temora Zone RSA. “Thanks to the volunteers pitching in to knock on doors, man tables, run the street stall and handle a whole lot of background jobs. “In a year filled with lots of grim headlines, it’s great to see our corner of the world making some good news.” It wasn’t just the door knock appeal that was a success the street stall coordinated by area captain Yvette ‘Riv’ Thompson was an overwhelming success, making $2,314.60, beating last year’s funds raised. Businesses in Hoskins Street donated $1350 when area captain, Bill Ingram and his team conducted a business walk last Wednesday 27 May. Cr Firman said that it was great to have students from St Annes Catholic College and Temora High School also give up their weekend to help collect for us. “We are extremely grateful to our Area Captains and all the Volunteer Collectors, they have been exceptional,” he said. “They put their heart and soul into this as they know all monies raised in the Temora Zone, stays in the Temora Zone all to assist others who really need a helping hand. “It certainly makes us feel warm inside to know our communities continue to have the heart to help others.”
