S Haslam
Drinking beer for charity doesn’t sound like the hardest job in the world, but it’s certainly one of the most appreciated. Hardworking not-for-profit Wedgetail Retreat Northern Rivers Community Hospice is a specialized 24/7 palliative care facility utilizing trained volunteer palliative carers along with registered nursing staff.
But, because this wonderful free facility is not government funded by NSW Health, it relies solely on donations. Seeing the need, local brewer Stone & Wood, who have their main brewery in Murwillumbah as well as a smaller brewery in Byron, contributed the profits from last weekend’s ‘Open Day’ at the brewery to the retreat.
Last year they raised $30,000 through their not-for-profit inGrained Foundation and this year are hoping to raise a similar amount.
Stone & Wood’s Community Manager Jasmin Daly said this is the third year the independent brewery has partnered with Wedgetail Retreat, whose vital services continue to receive strong community feedback.
‘We’ve seen the wonderful work Meredith and her team do, caring for our community,’ Miss Daly said. ‘The respite, refuge and tranquillity they provide for those with life-limiting illnesses, and also the support they give to the families in their time of need, is inspirational.’
The fun Open Day had, of course, beer as well as food and music, market stalls, food trucks, a kids’ area and brewery tours for those keen to get behind the scenes. If you missed it, it’s worth a trip next year!
Photos by Jeff Dawson.
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