About 40 years ago, Werribee Fire Brigade’s then captain was approached by two prominent local families.
For years, the Chamberlains and the Tooheys had collected for the Good Friday Appeal.
One family took the east side of the Werribee River, while the other focused on the west side.
But the growth of the township proved an issue for the two families, so they roped in help from the local fireys.
“They were quite big families, but it was growing too big for them,” Mr Wells said.
“They asked for a meeting, and they said they wanted to hand it over to us.”
Ever since, the brigade and a team of other volunteers have taken to the streets to knock on doors and rattle tins at intersections, raising much-needed cash for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.
With Easter fast approaching, Mr Wells and other brigade members are after as many volunteers as they can muster to join this year’s collection.
“We normally have about 160 volunteers each year,” Mr Wells said.
“We collect money right across Werribee and Wyndham Vale.
“We predominantly look for families, mums and dads with their kids, and other people to come forward and help us collect.”
Last year’s efforts put more than 500 volunteers on the streets, making a new record for the local brigade.
A whopping $79,138.60 was raised.
Anybody looking to volunteer for the appeal is invited to ring the brigade on 9742 7009.
Otherwise, just turn up to the station on Anderson Street at 8am on Good Friday.
A free lunch will be provided, and all volunteers are covered under insurance.
