What started as a small fundraiser in Guyra to gather $500 for the Melanoma Institute Australia, has transformed into a nationally-recognised initiative that’s generated over $24,000.
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And the money is still rolling in.
Harrison, Angus, Thomas and Hugo and their mum, Kathryn Brazier, started Five Cent Friday in memory of Mark Brazier who lost his life last year after a short battle with melanoma.
“We’re currently at $24,193.05 and we’ve still got money here and money to come in,” Mrs Brazier said.
“I’ve tried to put a stop on it but it is still trickling in.”
Mrs Brazier said she was “totally overwhelmed” at the support, not just locally, but across the nation.
“It’s Australia-wide,” she said.
“Dear Melanoma got onto it through our Facebook page and they are a huge fundraiser for the MIA.
“So money has been coming in quite constantly from everywhere.”
Blogger Emma Betts has over 26,000 followers on her Facebook blog, Dear Melanoma, with support continuing to grow even after her passing in April.
To wrap up the Five Cent Friday fundraiser, the Brazier family had $12,000 worth of coins on display at the Guyra Community Hall on Saturday.
“There was $8,000 in five cent coins and $4,000 in $1 coins,” Mrs Brazier said.
“They made a 9 metre by 4 metre umbrella which is the MIA logo.
“It was absolutely huge and we put on a BBQ as thanks to people.”
And support continued to flow on Saturday, with locals donating more coins towards the cause.
“People came up and were throwing more coins into it,” she said.
“What was the most special part in the afternoon was all the kids, without being asked, got in and helped the boys pack it all up.”
Last month the Glen Innes-Guyra Rugby Union Club also got on board, holding a Black Tie Ball to raise money in memory of their former teammate.
Angus said the boys started the fundraiser to help find a cure.
“Hopefully this money can help save lives so no one else has to die from melanoma,” he said.