Australian fundraisers throughout resort this month

Several community and corporate led fundraisers for Australian bushfire relief will take place in Sun Peaks, B.C., centering around Australia Day on the weekend of Jan. 25 and 26.

“Participating in fundraising efforts to show support for the situation in Australia is important for three different reasons,” said Aidan Kelly, marketing director of Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR). “First, it’s just the right thing to do. Second, Australia is a very important part of our resort, from both a staff and guest perspective. We’re strongly connected. Third, Sun Peaks has received a lot of support from various folks due to our own fire related issues over the years, this time it’s our turn to help.”

A Sausage Sizzle (barbecue) will take place on Saturday, Jan. 25 at Masa’s Bar + Grill and at Mantles Restaurant. One hundred per cent of the proceeds will be donated and additional details will be released closer to the date.

The Masa’s Bar + Grill’s Australia Day Party will be cover by donation, with 100 per cent of the proceeds matched by both SPR and the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel & Conference Centre.  

A post in a local Facebook group by resident Alex Smith helped to galvanize the community response to help those in Australia, showing a strong desire among Sun Peakians to get involved. 

In addition, Tourism Sun Peaks and SPR have donated ski vacation packages to be raffled off in Australia through tour operators and Australian media to assist. 

Other fundraising initiatives have also taken place, such as Sun Peaks Yoga’s Karma Class on Jan. 9., as well as many residents donated directly to Australian organizations. 

“It’s a sad and unfortunate situation and we are pleased to be able to assist in our own small way by helping rally the community for both financial and symbolic support,” said Kelly. “Hopefully things take a turn for the better soon for all those impacted.”

Is your business or organization assisting? Email editor@sunpeaksnews.com to be added to the article.