Dan Murphy’s Echuca has raised the highest amount of money of all stores in Australia through the most recent GIVIT fundraising round.
Totalling just over $5000, Echuca beat out more than 270 other stores to donate towards mental health and wellbeing for another year.
The funds were raised through a raffle and asking customers to round up or make a donation throughout the week of September 9 to 15.
Saturday, September 14, was GIVIT Day, with an even bigger push by the team to top the nation in donations.
Store manager Victoria Zahra-Territo was grateful for the support of the community members, who were eager to give to the cause.
“We want to make a special mention to the generosity of the community,” she said.
“It’s phenomenal ... we asked every customer, but everyone was so willing to donate.
“As soon as we mentioned mental health, it really resonates with the community.”
Dan Murphy’s hosts regular GIVIT fundraisers with different initiatives, including mental health and wellbeing in September, helping families in need around Christmas time, and domestic and family violence prevention in March.
The whole crew was only too happy to get involved, including Miranda Lammers who put together hampers in her own time to be raffled off, with hundreds of tickets selling for $10 each.
“Our team are so proud to be doing it and giving back,” team member Alison Barnes said.
This is the second year in a row that Echuca Dan Murphy’s has raised the most out of all stores.
Ms Zahra-Territo credits the customers for this achievement, creating a strong reputation for giving in the town.
“To think that little humble Echuca raised the most funds, it just goes to show the community spirit,” she said.
“Putting Echuca on the map.”
Local community organisations will reap the benefits of the fundraiser, with GIVIT working with Crossenvale Community House, Echuca Regional Health, Anglicare Echuca and Echuca Neighbourhood House.
Overall, Dan Murphy’s raised around $330,000 for GIVIT, easily reaching their $250,000 target.