THE rural community has raised more than $80,000 for popular Riverina footy player Josh Hanlon.
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The Sheep Drive Appeal saw bids of up to $300 come in for quality lambs at Griffith on Friday.
Mark Flagg Livestock and Property principal, Mark Flagg of Barellan said donations from 90 producers were made.
“The sale of these sheep and lambs grossed in excess of $80,000,” he said.
Mr Flagg said the top pen of eight lambs made $300. He said the auction was supported by livestock agents, auctioneers and buyers and resulted in a wonderful outcome.
The sheep drive follows on from a widespread outpouring of support for Mr Hanlon who is affectionately known as “Chooka.”
He’s well known throughout the farming districts of Weethalle and is also supported by his current footy club the North Wagga Saints.
Mr Hanlon is currently recovering in Wagga Wagga Rural Referral Hospital after contracting the bacterial virus Strep A over the long weekend.
The drug which saved his life stopped the blood flow to Mr Hanlon’s extremities. He lost his right hand, and both legs were amputated as a result. While it was predicted the Josh Hanlon Sheep Drive would raise $60,000 on the day, with such overwhelming support from friends, family, farmers, the entire community, they instead smashed the initial figure. “There are very generous people out here,” said family friend Paul Northey. “It makes you very proud to be part of the country areas when people get together like this,” Mr Northey said.
Mr Northey gave special mention to the coordinators on the day.
“They didn’t even hesitate – they just said, yeah, we’ll do it.”
Mr Northey said Mr Hanlon’s condition is improving. “Josh can’t eat yet by himself, but he’s making tiny little steps everyday, and all positive, so it’s good.”
If you would like to make a donation, please send it to:
- National Australia Bank – Wagga, BSB: 082 912, Account: 578331869, Account Name: Andrew and Leanne Hanlon ATF Josh William Hanlon.