Printed Post Issue 25 | Page 10

Poker Run Raises $100,000 The annual Shag Gregory Poker Run celebrated 15 years of fundraising for Motor Neuron Disease (MND) this year, with 109 entries. This years fundraising effort of $9,000 brings the 15 year total to over $100,000. Proceeds from the annual ‘Run’ are distributed to Motor Neuron Research, Shag Gregory Memorial scholarships to Hay Public School, St. Mary’s School, Hay War Memorial High School and School of the Air students, and Can Assist. Many of those on the Poker Run travelled long distances to attend the event, including Chief Executive Officer of research into MND, Janet Nash. Janet met Shag Gregory in 2000 and gladly travelled from Sydney to thatnk the Hay Community for it’s generosity and give a speech on the symptoms of MND and what is being done to combat the disease. According to Tracy Ellis, one of the organisers of the Poker run, Janet’s moving speech brought many to tears. After travelling from Hay to Maude, Booligal and back to Hay, those on bikes, buses and cars returned to the South Hay Hotel for more fun activities. Organisers estimate a couple of hundred people attended the pub to enjoy stunt bike riders, the big slide, sno cones, donuts and entertainment by the band Velvateen. Tracy Ellis and niece Jenny Lee May at Gill’s Greatest Shave. In conversation about the Poker Run, Tracy told Printed Post “MND takes more people than cancer. Research is vital.” The Poker Run committee would like to thank the Hay Community, Poker Players and businesses for their continued support. Without sponsors and the community days like this wouldn’t exist. Photos courtesy Outback Snaps Mini stunt bike riders, Whip Industries, enthralled the huge crowd at the South Hay Hotel after the poker run performing three shows in the car park. Easter Bunny shops at Mackers Says “I’m spoiled for choice” Barra, Basa, Orange Roughy, Blue Grenadier, Salmon, Dory, Whiting & Snapper. Queensland King Prawns, Imported Prawns, Scallops, Squid Tubes and Oysters Mackers Meats for all your Seafood this Easter Open 6.30 am - 6pm Mon - Fri Saturday Mornings Order early to avoid disappointment 6993 1099 Closed Good Friday 18th April Reopen Tuesday 22nd April 10