Saturday’s annual Bell & Ford vintage clothes garage sale fundraiser for the SHIFT Project was an incredible success with $36,500 being raised at the Byron Surf Club – this year’s effort was up about $7,500 on the last event.
SHIFT’s Julie Wells said the room was full of happy ‘hunters’ from the moment the doors opened.
So many to thank
Wells wanted to thank the hundreds of people who took part in this event, all of the donors who raided their robes and gave beautiful clothes, and the Byron Surf Life Saving club for such a spectacular venue. ‘I also want to give a huge thanks to Linda Grace, Annette Campbell and Leslie Ford – three amazing women who are the driving force behind this event.
‘Along with a BIG team of volunteers they spend an entire year networking with local shops, encouraging people to clear out their wardrobes, collecting, sorting and storing beautiful clothing. Then its promotion time, putting up signs – the ladies were spotted in the rain tying signs to poles – gathering clothing racks, transporting the huge range of clothes, bags and accessories to the venue. Then it’s the hanging, the ironing, the presenting and THEN the day arrives – the doors open and magic happens.
From top to bottom
‘Thank you from the top of our heads to the bottom of our well-dressed feet.’
Wells said that everyone at the SHIFT Project are so touched and grateful to all who make this event a success. ‘This is a true act of generosity of time and spirit – community supporting community.
‘The funds will support staff in our residential program and allow us to continue outreach ensuring SHIFT can sustain and grow.
‘Next year is in the pipeline – see you there!’
All the unsold clothing has been given to Lifeline, Anglicare and Global Ripple.
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