And that’s exactly what locals did on Australia Day when they flocked to a fundraising barbecue held at Johnson’s Tuckshop in support of local other Nikki Higgins.

Since doctors broke the news that the single mum of two had Motor Neurone Disease 12 months ago, she has lost the use of her legs and arms – and the debilitating condition is now starting to move into her throat.

As a result of the barbecue $2000 was raised for the Child Maintenance and Educational Trust Fund that has been set up for Nikki’s children Tayla Green, 13 and Beau Green, 15.

Tuckshop owner Greg Collier said he was pleased to see so many people willing to help. He is now calling on businesses to show that same spirit.

“It was wonderful. The fantastic team made up of Sonya, Dolly, Jodi, Kristie, Deborah, Stacey and Kylie was flat out from mid-morning until after lunch. I’m very proud of them,” Mr Collier said.

“I think it went very well but I only consider it a starting point. I’d like to get that $2000 up to $10,000 and I just hope that some of the longstanding Griffith businesses will get behind this second-generation Griffith family.

“I had the opportunity to talk to Nikki’s mum Sandra on the day and she shared what they go through and it’s certainly not easy for them. There are some tough times ahead.”

Anyone who wants to make a donation towards the trust fundfor Beau and Tayla can drop in to Roy Spagnolo’s office on Yambil Street.

Meanwhile, the family flew out to the Gold Coast for the trip of a lifetime on Monday.

Thanks to the generosity of the community they will spend 10 days on the Gold Coast visiting the theme parks together, realising a family dream.