Fundraising for the 2011 Macquarie Matrons Ball has officially begun. The Macquarie Matrons have hit the sheepyards, and are hoping that farmers throughout the Macquarie Valley may have a spare lamb or two that they are willing to donate in support of their lamb drive during November 2010 as an important part of their fundraising program for the Westhaven Association.

Committee members are extremely excited about the prospect of organising the lamb drive and believe that with the current season’s conditions and excellent prices, a lamb drive for charity could yield vital funds for the cause.

Macquarie Matrons Co-President, Amber Dimond, said “the committee have really set their sights high this year in terms of putting on an incredible event, raising both cash and the profile of Westhaven, which is such a deserving charity”.

“Westhaven is an organisation close to the heart of many in the Macquarie Valley and we know that local farmers and buyers will really get behind this fantastic initiative. Fund raised by the lamb drive will give the fundraising a fantastic jump start ahead of the ball”.

The Macquarie Matrons have partnered with local agent Peter Cruickshank, who is facilitating the sale. Co-President Skye Rush explains “any farmer who is able to donate a lamb or two should contact the committee, and we will organise pick up, and transport them to Dubbo for sale. All donors are invited to attend the sale and will receive acknowledgement for their generous support.”

The Macquarie Matrons charity for 2011 is The Westhaven Association in Dubbo, who provide supported employment and housing for people with intellectual disabilities. Westhaven stands alone in the services in provides to the region. Westhaven is currently seeking fund to build a high-care aged house for its residents, and the funds raised by the Macquarie Matrons will go directly towards this building. The Macquarie Matrons fundraising efforts culminate in the biennial ball, to be held in September 2011.