Community
9 April, 2026
Digging deep for a great cause
COMMUNITIES across the state dug deep to ensure the annual Good Friday Appeal surged to its highest result yet.
The appeal, now in its 95th year, raises money for the Royal Children’s Hospital, ground-breaking research and also commits a portion of the proceeds to regional health services.
Terang and Mortlake residents showcased their generosity despite the challenging economic conditions, with both towns recording an increase on last year.
Terang residents raised $9411.38, which Good Friday Appeal Terang area manager Rob Rowe said was a credit to the generosity of the community.
“It went very well despite the current climate we’re under,” he said.
“People are struggling at the moment so to be able to raise what we did was a very good effort.
“All our volunteers work like absolute trojans, so a massive thanks to all of them.
“We had good numbers this year thanks to the help of the 1st Noorat Scouts, so we got through it pretty quick and everyone was able to spend time with the family.
“We couldn’t be more thankful to the community – we all know someone who has used, or is currently using, the facility so that kind of money goes a long way towards helping.”
In Mortlake there was a total of $6552.93 raised, an increase of over $2000 from last year, which marked the town’s 55th year of participation.
Good Friday Appeal Mortlake area manager Michelle Howat said the involvement from members of the Country Fire Authority (CFA) this year had been influential in the result.
“It was great, and having the fire brigade there made all the difference,” she said.
“They were out and about making lots of noise.
“All the kids could hear it so everyone was coming out with their money.”
Ms Howat said the efforts in the town had been further heightened when two Ellerslie tankers rolled in to support collection efforts.
“There’s no doubt we’re interested in having the CFA involved again next year,” she said.
“They’re gung-ho about being involved next year, already have plans in place and are already thinking about how we can do things bigger and better.”
In addition, the Garvoc area tally reached an incredible $34,261.68 thanks to the annual Goods and Services Auction which, year in and year out, results in the little community punching well above its weight on the tally board.
The generosity on display saw Victorians unite to raise a record $25,268,485 for the Good Friday Appeal, with $5,929,934 raised in regional areas.
Good Friday Appeal executive director Rebecca Cowan said the result was an example of what can be achieved when people work together.
“We are continually inspired by the dedication and generosity of regional Victorians,” she said.
“We know that regional Victoria is the backbone of the Good Friday Appeal.
“This year’s incredible total is a reflection of the passion and commitment of these communities.
“From creative fundraising initiatives to tireless tin rattlers to 75 years of the CFA, every effort has made a real difference for sick children and their families.
“We are thrilled that this year’s Appeal will help strengthen regional health services, allowing families to access world-class care without needing to travel far from their communities.”