Presented by the Kyabram P-12 College Chaplaincy Support Group, proceeds from the event will be split between the P-12 Chaplaincy and the bushfire appeal through the Salvation Army.
Kyabram P-12 College Chaplain Liz Spicer, who also serves as a Victorian emergency and police chaplain, said the event would support students and families throughout the school and wider community.
“I worked for two years after Black Saturday, from the time of the deaths all the way to recovery … so I would like to give half of our funds to the bushfires because it’s so close to my heart,” she said.
“Having Anthony join us is a really big coup for Kyabram. A lot of people don’t go past Melbourne and he really believes in chaplaincy.
“People are worried about the bushfires, they’re worried about students living in drought and struggling in the farming industry.”
Anthony's journey from life on the Tiwi Islands to Essendon Football Club’s much-adored cult hero is a story you do not want to miss.
Jane McDonald, who adopted Anthony in Gippsland and was instrumental to his growth into the man he is today, will also take the stage.
“Anthony likes to give back to the community as he knows what it’s like to struggle and he’s a big supporter of chaplaincy who help people in need,” Jane said.
Anthony said he was excited to use his public platform to help and inspire those in need.
“I want to help people. If I tell my story it might help them to push through and find a way out of their darkness,” he said.
Kyabram P-12 College Chaplaincy Support Group chair David Lloyd said having a guest of Anthony's stature at the event would provide a great educational experience, as well as a little excitement, for Kyabram residents.
“I think the fact that Mr Tipungwuti has come from such a tough background and yet, with the support of his adoptive mum, he’s been able to get to the top of footy,” he said.
“We would love to see dads and their kids come along ... it will be really inspirational.
“Many people in the community feel for those who are going through a tough time in fire-affected areas and this is also an opportunity for us to put some money where that is most needed.”
The fundraiser is on Friday, February 14 at the Kyabram Bocce Club from 7 pm.
Included will be finger food delivered to your tables, drinks at the bar, live music, football trivia and photo opportunities with Anthony.
Tickets are priced at $100 an adult and $60 a school student.
To book, visit www.trybooking.com/BHRVT or Fab Flowers Florist and Nursery. You can also phone Sue on 0400 565 052.