By Michael Doran
Anyone wanting to give archery a try and help veterans at the same time should head to the Yering District Archers on Saturday 20 October.
The Yering District Archers holds an annual charity event and this year is partnering with the Aussie Veterans Op-Shop in Boronia.
The shop is a not-for-profit that supports the Australian Peacekeeper and Peacemaker Veteran’s Association (APPVA).
It is a day for both beginners and experienced archers alike.
All the equipment will be provided and budding Robin Hoods of any age will be welcomed.
Yering District Archers secretary Amanda Barkway said the group had raised more than $8000 for charities over the past four years from fund-raising days.
“Every year we look to support a charity that is near and dear to our heart,” Ms Barkway said.
“One of our members has served overseas and that was how the connection to the veterans op-shop came about.”
APPVA is a veteran’s organisation that provides comfort and assistance with welfare and entitlements for Australian Defence Force veterans and their families.
Aussie Veterans Op-Shop volunteer John McNeill worked with Yering District Archers to organise the fund-raiser.
“All the proceeds of the Veterans Op-Shop go to help veterans and their families, many of whom are on the higher end of the disability spectrum,” he said.
“The access to welfare entitlements is an ongoing concern for many veterans and we often get involved at the point when the government has said no to their claims.“
The Aussie Veterans Coffee Co is a venture Mr McNeill started last year to provide employment opportunities for injured veterans.
“The coffee business has grown from just online to doing farmer’s markets, a coffee van and we are about to open our first coffee shop,” he said.
“My goal is to raise enough money to create a health and wellness centre for vets.”
Australia’s peacekeeping involvement stretches back to 1947 and more than 66,000 veterans have contributed.
More recent service has been in Somalia, Rwanda, East Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan.
Yering District Archers is at 13 McIntyre Lane, Yering, and the fund-raiser will run from 10am to 11am.
Ms Barkway said: “There is always an emphasis on having a fun day for all the family and we thrive on everyone feeling welcome.”
There will be a barbecue and drinks on sale with the proceeds also going to the Aussie Veterans Op-Shop, which is in the Boronia Mall and can be contacted on 9761 0468.
