North Coast residents are being encouraged to put their best foot forward this Wednesday, 14 October, as RFBI launches its inaugural Grand Stroll fundraiser in Bellingen and Raleigh.
The community walkathon will bring together aged care residents, families, volunteers and local supporters to raise funds for RFBI’s Benevolence Program, which assists people experiencing hardship and supports initiatives aimed at improving community health and wellbeing.
RFBI Bellingen Masonic Village and RFBI Raleigh Urunga Masonic Village are among six locations across Northern NSW taking part in the first-ever event.
The initiative replaces individual village fundraising activities with a coordinated regional effort designed to strengthen community connections while supporting people in need.
While RFBI is best known for providing aged care, retirement living and Care at Home services, its Benevolence Program extends assistance beyond its villages to vulnerable people in the wider community.
Local businesses, schools, sporting clubs, community organisations and residents are being encouraged to get involved by joining the walk, sponsoring participants, making donations or cheering on walkers.
RFBI Chief Marketing Officer Alana Parker said the fundraiser was about bringing communities together for a shared purpose.
“At its heart, The Grand Stroll is about connection,” said Parker.
“The Grand Stroll is about more than walking laps. It’s about communities coming together to support one another. Funds for through the RFBI Benevolence Program help us provide assistance where it is needed most and we’re proud to see residents, families, volunteers and local supporters leading that effort.”
Participants are encouraged to embrace the event’s royal or superhero theme, with prizes for the best-dressed walkers, most laps completed and the village that raises the most funds.
The event will run from 10am to 1pm, featuring a community walkathon, a friendly race between staff and volunteers, and a barbecue and brunch celebration.
Two North Coast locations will host the event:
- Bellingen: RFBI Bellingen Masonic Village, 38 Watson Street
- Raleigh: RFBI Raleigh Urunga Masonic Village, 191 Old Pacific Highway
The fundraiser will also take place at RFBI villages in Armidale, Glen Innes, Moonbi and Tamworth.
Registration costs $5 per person, with all proceeds going towards the RFBI Benevolence Program.
North Coast residents can register, donate or find further information at www.rfbi.com.au/thegrandstroll.
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