Stock sale raises $33,583 for local Cancer Society

An auction under way for the 2023 Gisborne-East Coast Cancer Society stockyard sale held at the Matawhero yards to benefit Daffodil Day. This year was the 25th sale for the cancer society. Picture supplied

A whopping $33,583 was raised for the Gisborne-East Coast Cancer Society at the 25th stockyard fundraising sale held to support Daffodil Day.

Expressing gratitude, Cancer Society fundraising and events coordinator Shay Podjursky said to everyone involved, “We can’t thank you enough”.

“This wonderful event, thought up by Andy Woolfield and heavily supported by the rural community, has this year celebrated its 25th anniversary — it’s something to be incredibly proud of.

“Twenty-five years of donations makes a real tangible difference to our local community.”

Ms Podjursky said there were many people to thank including ANZ Bank and PGG Wrightsons.

“But the biggest applause must go to our donors, purchasers, truck drivers and stock agents/auctioneers.

“Without their generosity and continuous support this event would not have seen the success that it has.”

The 2023 Daffodil Day stockyard sale raised nearly $34,000 from 313 sheep donated by farmers.

One regular supporter supplied 53 lambs which sold for $215 per head.

Ms Podjursky said the amount raised was absolutely incredible given how hard hit the rural community was from the cyclone.

ANZ and relationship associate Michelle Hawea said farmers donated stock each year and some had made a regular contribution for 25 years.

“Generous purchasers often pay more than market value for the stock they purchase from this sale, as their way of supporting/donating to the day.

“Purchasers can be from out of the region.”

Ms Hawea also thanked Farmers Transport, Robb Brothers and Harvest Matawhero Transport, PGG Wrightson’s manager Jamie Hayward, stock agents and auctioneers Chris Hurlstone, Neville and Cody Clarke.

Much of the money raised goes to supporting cancer patients through counselling, therapy and transportation.