Woolgrowers are being encouraged to donate their scrap pieces of wool to a pilot program launched by the Royal Flying Doctor South Eastern Section (RFDS SE).
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‘Wool for Wings’ was established by Max Zell of Gilgandra who first originated the idea and took it to the RFDS SE eight years ago.
Wool for Wings asks farmers to gather up their oddments, drop them to their wool broker and send a donation form to the Flying Doctor. The broker will sell the wool and forward the proceeds to the RFDSSE who will issue the woolgrower with a receipt and certificate for the donation, which is 100 per cent tax deductible.
The wool industry has always been a great supporter of the RFDS with donations received from wool sales each year, but RFDS SE’s Prue Steel, believes it’s time to take it to the next level.
“We’ve done it on an ad hoc basis with Max and a single Dubbo broker, Coggan’s Wool, but we’d like to make it an ongoing, more formal arrangement,” Prue said.
“Our idea is to do a 12-month pilot program in Dubbo, where we have an established network, and then expand it to other areas.
“We feel certain the goodwill exists in the wool industry to make this work. Four years ago we were the charity of the year at the National Merino Sheep Show and sale and are hopeful we’ll be chosen again this year.”
She said fundraising is essential in keeping the Flying Doctor flying.
“Government grants and contracts only cover a proportion of our costs and the balance is made up by donations,” she said.
Woolgrowers can register by calling the RFDS SE on 9941 8803.
