By KATH GANNAWAY
TWO years into a project that will bring children and animals together to help each other heal Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge has found a pot of gold.
The RACV Foundation provided a $20,000 grant to the group to fund an activity room in front of the big green sheep shed at the Rainbow farm in Chum Creek.
Annette Conrad started the project two years ago in memory of her daughter Gill, a vet nurse who was known and loved for her compassion and understanding of animals and people.
The philosophy of the program is to bring children who have gone through challenges and animals who have also gone through challenges, together in a way that they can help each other heal.
“Just coming to the farm is a new experience and gives the children, and sometimes their families, some space where they live and learn about the care of animals, respect for each other and what we hope is that it will give each the confidence and skills to face the things in life we all have to face,” Annette said.
Annette is supported by a dedicated team of family and friends who have already raised a considerable amount of money to get the project up and running.
“This grant is a huge boost to us, both for the practical job of getting the program running, and for morale,” Annette said.
RACV Community Foundation manager Pete Haydon said his organisation was happy to support the project because it brings young people together and gets them outside and active.
“We see it as a really innovative idea that will help vulnerable and at-risk kids for years to come,” he said.
“We wish Annette and everyone at Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge all the best and we’ll be very excited to visit when construction is finished and they’re up and running,” he said.
Programs for children between six and 12 years old are scheduled to begin next year focusing on children with a parent managing a mental illness, isolated children, children who have siblings with a disability or who have experienced physical or mental abuse.
“This is just a beginning for Gillian’s Rainbow Bridge, we hope to offer many more programs in the future,” Annette said.
Anyone who would like to be part of this wonderful project, or help in any way, can contact Annette on 5962 5995 or visit www.gilliansrainbowbridge.org.au.
