An enthusiastic bunch of 20 boats and their crews for the Redneck River Rally took off Friday morning from Darlington Point, with organisers officially kicking off the six day rally with a 'Rubber Duck Race" and barbecue breakfast.
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The annual Redneck Rally was a little different this year with event organisers opting for 'tinnies' and fishing instead of the event's standard car rally over land due to the uncertainty of COVID. The rally raises money every year for Country Hope and throughout its four year history has raised over $1 million for the riverina not-for-profit.
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"We're proud to be the largest fundraiser for Country Hope and through this group we can see locally where the hard earned fundraising goes to help the future of our region," Gavin Gilbert, organiser of the annual event said.
The Murray Darling Basin Authority was the major sponsor for the inaugural River Run, with event organisers saying their support and enthusiasm was vital in getting the idea off the ground.
The morning kicked off with the duck race race which saw Darlington Point local, Shane East win a cash prize of $1000. Mr East was quick to pass on the prize however, donating it back to Country Hope show casing the true spirit of what the event is all about.
Participant David Gilmore, who has been involved with the car rally since its inception, this year brought along his two sons and family friends all the way from Appin to be involved.
"This is the first year I get to do it with my sons because they obviously can't do the rally so really looking forward to it," Mr Gilmore said.
Murrumbidgee Council Mayor Ruth McRey expressed pride for the local organisers and their enthusiasm year in and year out.
"This event is driven by locals who have a passion for this organisation," Mrs McRey said.
"Gavin has the ability to drive it and bring the people in from all over the community.
"It's really great. It brings people to our caravan park and to our small businesses here and brings a bit of promotion to our small town."
All the money raised for Country Hope stays in the riverina district to help support families of children battling cancer and other life threatening illnesses. Mick Small, from Country Hope said their work for riverina families is only made possible through fundraising efforts like the Redneck River Run.
"The support from this event is absolutely amazing. What it does for the families and sick kids that we support you can't put words to describe it," Mr Small said of the event.
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Kat is a former English teacher to international students and has taught all over the world. She is beginning a new career as a journalist with the Area News. Got something you want to chat about? She's all ears.
Kat is a former English teacher to international students and has taught all over the world. She is beginning a new career as a journalist with the Area News. Got something you want to chat about? She's all ears.
