A blooming success

By Kath Gannaway
BETH Honeycombe knows she had a big act to follow in organising Daffodil Day in Healesville.
Beth has taken up the reins after the recent death of Jessie Arundell, who, with husband, George, organised the event in Healesville for The Cancer Council over a number of years.
“I’ve already had a terrific response from Jessie’s band of volunteers, and some new people as well,” Beth said. “So much so,” she added, “that we feel we can commit to running the stalls over the three days – 24, 25 (Daffodil Day) and 26 of August, as Jessie and George always did.
Having lost their teenage son, Chris, to cancer in 1992, the Honeycombe family is a regular supporter of local events, which raise funds for research and to promote awareness in relation to cancer.
Beth said one of the most rewarding aspects of being a volunteer on Daffodil Day is having the opportunity to meet people who are dealing with cancer in some way.
“Raising funds is a big part of it all, and there are lots of things for people to buy from the daffodils to keyrings, teddy bears, pens and stick-pins, but Daffodil Day also provides an opportunity for people to come and say hello and just share their experiences.
“I think that’s a very valuable and important part of what we can do as volunteers,” she said. “We should be there to listen to each other and share each other’s burdens.”
Daffodil Day stalls will be located in two locations, Main Street and at Healesville Walk, so more volunteers are needed. Beth said she would like to hear from anyone who can put in a couple of hours during the three days.
She is also calling for anyone who has donated daffodils in the past to contact her if they can help out again this year.
Beth can be contacted on 5962 5493.