News
31 May, 2024
Dining for chaplaincy funds
Former Greek rugby league captain Jordan Meads will be the guest speaker at a fundraising dinner for local chaplaincy, staged at the Mount Mee Public Hall on Saturday, June 8.
The event will raise funds for chaplaincy at Mount Mee State School, after Peter Robertson (aka ‘Chappy Pete’) began his role as a chaplain in the region a little over two years ago.
In addition to Meads - who has played rugby league at World Cup level - Mr Robertson will be another speaker while entertainment will be provided by Stuart Patterson, who recently performed at the Small Halls Festival at Mount Mee.
Mr Robertson said his role as a school chaplain was to provide social, emotional and spiritual support to students, parents and staff, taking into account the specific needs of the school.
Mr Robertson said one particular occasion which stuck in his mind was when a Year 1 student came to school in tears because he forgot to put his socks on.
The school chaplain said it may sound like a small thing, but that it was a big deal for the student.
After gaining permission from the student’s mum, Mr Robertson ducked into town and bought a four-pack of kids’ socks, allowing the student to choose his favourite colour.
“After he had finished PE that day, he came running up to me and said ‘Chappy, Chappy, these are the most comfortable socks I have ever worn’.”
Mr Robertson said although “we are very blessed to receive government funding for chaplaincy in Australia”, the funding allowed for only one day of chaplaincy per week.
“Most chaplains work at schools for more than one day, and so are required to raise enough funds from within their community to allow them to get paid for their extra day or days,” he said.
Tickets for the fundraising dinner cost $40 and include a two-course meal, while raff le prizes will also be on offer.
Bookings can be made to Julie on 0437 917 206. Arrive at 5.30pm for a 6pm start.
