Community raises more than $15,000 to help Max
Members of the West Dubbo Bowling Club were cheering on Saturday, after an incredible reception at the Yellow For Max fundraiser evening, Laura McIntyre reports for the Daily Liberal .
Fundraising goals were well and truly smashed, with the organisers raising more than $15,000 for Dubbo couple, Rob and Amy McIntyre, and their son Max.
The story of Max McIntyre has caught the city’s attention.
Max suffered a bout of bacterial meningitis in March last year which almost cost him his life.
But the little rock star proved his strength and continues to fight the disease.
Since then, the community has rallied to support the McIntyres with various events as they seek to cover ongoing medical costs for Max.
Coinciding with the youngster’s second birthday, West Dubbo Bowling Club linked its Open Triples Tournament with the Yellow For Max fundraiser.
The evening saw more than 170 people attend the benefit dinner at the club.
Club Dubbo promotions manager, Shannon Starr, said along with the ticket prices, the funds just kept on rolling in.
“The auction and raffles were really successful,” she said.
“Many of the raffle winners actually donated their prize back for the auction which followed.”
The hot items in the auction set bidders into a frenzy, she said.
Signed Sydney Swans merchandise went for $975, while a whole pack of lamb was won for $500, averaging $27 per kilogram.
Attendees were lucky enough to dine with royalty in the Bowls world, with top Australia bowlers, Steve Glasson, Kelvin Kerkow and Lynsey Clark in town for the benefit.
“Kelvin shared his experiences with a similar disease to polio in his youth,” she said.
“It really lifted everyone’s spirits, learning the story of someone who suffered in this childhood but has gone on to achieve so much.”
Max’s father, Rob McIntyre, said he was still in shock with the result of the evening.
“It’s been so comforting to receive support from not only our family and friends, but people in the wider community.”
“It’s not until you are on the receiving end of events such as this that you really notice how giving this community is.” Mr McIntyre said.
“Amy and I would really like to thank everyone for what they have done for us and Max. The proceeds from the night will really make a difference.”
Caption: Glenn Morrison, Steve Glasson, Kelvin Kerkow, Kate Burke and Lynsey Clarke with Amy, Max and Rob McIntyre.
