Beachport locals Mandie and Slim Reilly are heading interstate next month to assist a mate on his fundraising quest.
The Reillys struck up a friendship with Mike Stephenson almost 15 years ago when he was engaged on the construction of the sewerage system for Beachport.
His second stay at Beachport took up much of 2022 and 2023 as he was the Maritime Construction Pty Ltd project manager responsible for the multi-million-dollar refurbishment of the town’s jetty.
Due to the strong bond between the couple and Mike, they have opted to be his support crew for the annual Variety Club Jet Tek event.
They will be on the road undertaking various chores as Mike and 100 others ride their jet skis hundreds of kilometres for six consecutive days from Kingscliff in New South Wales to Gladstone in Queensland.
Ahead of their departure, the Reillys are undertaking various fundraising activities and seeking donations which go directly to the Variety Club.
Slim said there was strong interest in the raffle tickets for a large, cooked lobster which weighed over 3kg.
“The team vehicle and Mike’s jet ski will be proudly covered in Beachport stickers along the way,” Slim said.
“Any donation from the local community would be greatly appreciated and there are Variety Club collection tins in a number of Beachport businesses.
“Last year Mike was in the top five fundraisers for the Variety Club Jet Trek.
“A generous donation from the Lions Club of Beachport and Rivoli Bay certainly helped Mike’s fundraising efforts last year.
“We would love to be able to achieve close to the same funds for the Variety Club in 2024.”
Mike aims to raise at least $7500 for the Variety Club and has explained his reasons for taking part in the gruelling charity stunt.
He said the Variety Club can make a huge impact on Aussie kids in need.
“Donations to the Variety Club Jet Trek are used immediately to provide grants of equipment, programs, experiences and scholarships for kids,” Mike said.
“With community support, more kids who are sick, disadvantaged or living with a disability can get the assistance they need to achieve their full potential.
“Because all kids should be able to follow their dreams and be the best they can be. No matter what life throws at them. No matter what their ability.”
