There's been an incredible local Good Friday Appeal Fundraiser, thanks to the generosity of the community and the hard work of the team at the Phillip Island Tenpin Bowling & Entertainment Centre.

In just 14 days, what started as a simple idea turned into an extraordinary evening of generosity, community spirit, and unwavering support.

On Monday, March 31, the centre hosted a fundraiser dedicated to the Good Friday Appeal, and the response from the community was nothing short of incredible.

The result? A staggering $6722.20 raised, proving once again that when this community comes together, amazing things happen.

At the heart of this event was the fantastic team at Phillip Island Tenpin Bowling & Entertainment Centre.

From the moment planning began, the entire staff stepped up to make this fundraiser a success.

Jeremy, Craig, and the whole Tenpin team worked tirelessly behind the scenes - coordinating donations, setting up the venue, running the event, and ensuring everything went off without a hitch.

Their passion, dedication, and genuine care for the community shone through in every detail.

Events like this don't happen without an incredible support network, and Phillip Island's sense of community was on full display.

Special thanks go to Anne-Marie Branch, whose passion and hard work helped bring this event to life. It's people like Anne-Marie who remind us what true community spirit looks like.

The Phillip Island Fire Brigade, along with Rotary Phillip Island & San Remo, played a crucial role in supporting the event, with Gary and Tony from Rotary volunteering their time to help run the BBQ.

A huge thank you to Konney and Phil from IGA Cowes, who generously donated all the sausages for the BBQ, as well as a paddleboard and esky for the auction - helping to drive the fundraising total even higher.

Another standout contribution came from Wildlife Coast Cruises, who not only donated two amazing cruise experiences for the auction but also brought along Sammy the Seal to entertain the crowd - creating plenty of smiles throughout the event.

Auction and raffle

The generosity of local businesses and individuals was truly overwhelming, with an incredible lineup of auction items and raffle prizes that helped boost the fundraising total.

Some of the major donations included:

• Woodlands Golf Club, Phillip Island Golf Club, and Red Rocks Golf Club, each donating rounds of golf for lucky bidders.
• Adam from Reliable Gardens contributing two hours of professional garden maintenance with four workers, valued at over $700.
• Phillip Island Nature Parks, donating some experiences for the penguins, Churchill Island and koalas.
• Lindsey Becker Tattoos and Hectic, offering fantastic tattoo and body art vouchers.
• NRMA Caravan Park Cowes, generously providing a night's accommodation in a safari glamping tent - a dream getaway for the lucky bidders.
• Phillip Island Winery, offering an amazing wine experience.
• Phillip Island Gym, donating a three-month membership package.

And that's just to name a few.

A huge thank you to Courtney from Gifted Things, who spent hours packaging up all the donated prizes, ensuring everything looked incredible for the auction and raffle.

Special mention also goes to Greg Price from Alex Scott & Staff, who generously donated his time to run the prize auction, helping to raise crucial funds.

Thanks to Made By Bronte for her incredible support, designing and printing custom pyjamas for the PI Tenpin team in less than a week, ensuring everyone was ready and looking great for the event.

More than just a fundraiser

Beyond the funds raised, this event was a celebration of community spirit - a reminder of how special it is to live in a place where people look out for each other, support local causes, and work together to make a difference.

"We feel so lucky and privileged to be in a position where we can give back to this amazing community," said Jeremy, Managing Director at PI Tenpin.

"Seeing the generosity and kindness from so many businesses, volunteers, and individuals is truly inspiring.

"As we reflect on this incredible achievement, we extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, or contributed in any way.

"Your kindness and generosity will go a long way in helping the Good Friday Appeal continue its essential work.

"This is what community is all about. Thank you, Phillip Island."

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