News

Small towns with big hearts

By Dianne Black

Feb 25, 2026

Last year’s Good Friday Appeal, as televised on Channel 7, shows Devenish, Dookie and District as the third-highest fundraising community across the state.

From barefoot bowls to online auctions, Dookie and Devenish locals are showing how a few hundred people can make a huge difference for children’s health.

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In communities such as Dookie and Devenish, fundraising is more than an event; it’s a year-round commitment powered by volunteers, local businesses and a shared belief in helping children and families when they need it most.

That commitment is driving the Devenish, Dookie and District Good Friday Appeal towards a remarkable milestone: raising $1 million in 10 years for the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne.

For committee members Narelle and Matt Parker, the journey began in a very personal way.

With young children of their own at the time, getting involved felt like something they simply had to do.

“You don’t want to think you’ll ever need the hospital,” Narelle said.

“But you want it there if you do. We just jumped on board to help and it’s grown every year since.”

The appeal dates back more than 15 years, but the current committee has overseen its most significant growth, transforming a small fundraiser into a major regional effort.

What once centred on a traditional live auction has evolved into a diverse calendar of events supported by strong community participation.

A major turning point came during COVID, when organisers shifted the auction online.

“With a live auction, you might reach a couple of hundred people,” Matt said.

“Online, thousands can see it.

“That changed everything, and we haven’t looked back.”

Today, the online auction remains the largest fundraiser, generating $50,000 to $70,000 and featuring everything from small vouchers to major experiences.

While Good Friday is the public focus, work behind the scenes runs most of the year.

A small committee co-ordinates events, sources auction items and manages logistics across Devenish, Dookie and the surrounding districts.

Volunteers cook barbecues, assist on event days and connect organisers with new donors.

Locals consistently give beyond expectations, with auction items often selling above retail price, with the clear long-term goal to reach $1 million in 10 years.

“People understand what it’s for,” Narelle said.

“They just keep digging deep.

“It’s about doing our bit and being proud of what the community can achieve together.”

“For a small community like ours, it would be something we’re incredibly proud of,” Matt said.

Beyond the dollars, the appeal strengthens local connections, brings people together and ensures the district plays a meaningful role in supporting children across the state.