Toolboxes join the Pink Up: annual fundraiser takes off in Griffith, Leeton

Pink Up Your Town is back and Leeton is looking to give the fundraiser a big boot this year.

Raising funds for the McGrath Foundation and local nurse Fiona Shields, Griffith and Leeton Real Estate firms have launched the campaign, with major sponsor Middies encouraging businesses to get on board.

Last year the feat raised over $40,000 for the Foundation which assists Mrs Sheilds wages so she can provide patient care to those from as far as Lake Cargelligo to the north, Hay to the west and Narrandera in the south.

This year Jessica Zandona and Rachel Mackenzie from Griffith Real Estate are organising, saying they would love to see donations surpass last years tally.

"But we're happy to see donations of any size come through," Ms Mackenzie said.

"Middies have been getting right behind us and we're seeing other real estate firms take part which is great.

"In Leeton we're also really pleased to see the town well and truly getting behind it."

Griffith Real Estate director Tony Santolin says he is heartened with such a healthy response this early.

"This year I'm noticing people are coming to us, asking how they can get involved," he said.

Ms Zandona said the Tradies for Ladies part of the initiative is also being well supported.

"We're starting to see many pink toolboxes floating around," she said.

"Essentially tradies that donate receive a promotional sticker and we would love to see more farmers and truckies follow suit."

As in previous years, residents can expect to see businesses decorating their shop fronts with bras along with pink streamers and balloons to raise awareness.

A colouring-in competition for school students is also expected.

"The winning business will have Hit FM broadcast from their outlet and do a live cross," Mr Santolin said.

"There is also cricket memorabilia to be won.

"Everyone has been affected by breast cancer in some way which is why I think this is such an important event."

Since getting involved seven years ago, Griffith has raised a whopping $246,720 for the Foundation.

Mr Santolin and Brian Bortolin began the first Pink Up Griffith after Hugh Bateman from Mudgee real estate agency The Property Shop rolled into town in his pink tractor.

Griffith Real Estate responded by setting up a street party with a band, food stalls and jumping castles outside the office.

Since then it has grown, with 70 businesses taking part last year.

Residents can visit Griffith and Leeton Real Estate Facebook sites for updates and to learn how to donate.

(Source: The Area News)