In the wake of tragedy, the Southern Highlands community has stepped up.
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Following a fire that completely gutted Bowral business Reekies Tyres and More on November 26, Highlanders have rallied around the small family business.
Gubbins Home Timber and Hardware Moss Vale is the latest to get behind Reekies, with a fundraising barbecue scheduled for December 17. Gubbins general manager David Wansey said the barbecue would be held out the front of the store.
“One of our staff has family at Reekies, so beyond the emotional support we can offer, a barbecue and raffle is a practical way to get behind them as they rebuild,” he said.
“We’re all part of the same community, and we want to see them back on their feet as soon as possible.”
Several community members have organised a range of fundraising efforts, including a second-hand tool drive, fundraiser and raffle for Allan Reekie and his family business.
Mittagong resident Ben Neal is collecting second-hand tools to help get the business back on track. “I’ve seen the devastation fires can cause and insurance can take such a long time to come through. This is to help get them trading again as soon as we can,” he said.
Snap-on Tools Australia’s Southern Highlands store manager Shayne Carter has offered his time to help with the collection of tool donations.
“Everyone knows the truck, so if they see me driving around they can flag me down, or they can call and organise a pick-up and I’ll collect them when I’m working my way through the Highlands,” he said.
Mr Neal can also pick up any secondhand tools in usable condition from people in the Highlands. Anyone with any suitable tools to donate can call him on 0415 522 512.
“We’re looking to get a collection of general hand tools more than anything. We’ve got a few socket sets but need spanners, screwdriver sets and general hand tools,” he said.
“It doesn’t matter what brand they are, as long as it’s working and good enough to use.”
A separate fundraiser organised by local business owner Paul Cappa has raised more than $9200, with a goal of $10,000. Details are on the ‘Reekies Tyres & More fire appeal’ Facebook page.
“Everything else aside, this is a terrible thing to happen to anybody and if the shoe was on the other foot, Allan would be helping out. He helps so many people and I don’t think people realise how much. Now it’s our turn,” Mr Cappa said.