By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
Upwey CFA is getting ready for its 54th annual jumble sale, and this year’s event promises to be another highlight for the community.
The event is happening on Saturday, 3 May, at the Upwey CFA hall from 9am to 2pm.
Upwey CFA captain, Liam Rhodes said it’s not just a jumble sale where you can find some great second-hand goodies – it’s also the brigade’s biggest fundraiser of the year, helping to support all the important work they do.
For Mr Rhodes, the jumble sale represents the heart of what the CFA stands for – community connection and support.
“Without the community, we wouldn’t be able to do this. And without this, we wouldn’t be able to support our community in return,” he said.
He has been volunteering with the CFA for nearly 13 years and serving as captain for nearly a year.
The funds raised from this event are crucial for maintaining equipment and ensuring that Upwey CFA is ready for any emergency. With firefighting vehicles having a lifespan of around 20 years and rising costs of gear and uniforms, every dollar raised counts.
“One vehicle could easily cost $250,000 now, and with inflation, these things are getting more and more expensive,” he said.
The jumble sale plays a huge part in helping to meet these costs. Throughout April, donations roll in, ranging from second-hand furniture and books to kitchenware, gym equipment, and even camping gear.
Mr Rhodes said while they don’t keep track of every single donation, they’re confident there will be plenty for bargain hunters to dig through on the day.
The event will kick off in the morning with a wide selection of donated items available for sale.
Whether you’re after a comfy old armchair, a vintage display cabinet, or just a few new books, there’s something for everyone. The sale runs until around 2pm, offering plenty of time to browse and find a bargain.
And it’s not just about shopping – there will also be a barbecue running throughout the day, serving up tasty meals, and raffles with fantastic prizes, including a trailer load of firewood – cash and EFTPOS will be available, so everyone can get involved.
The captain said, the support of the local community is what makes this event possible.
“We’ve got about 35 to 40 operational members who are out there protecting the community 24/7, 365 days a year – and they do it all for free,” he said.
“At the end of the day, whatever the community spends at the jumble sale is returned back to them in the service that we provide.”
Even though Upwey CFA has been fortunate to avoid major local fires in recent years, their members are always ready to jump into action when needed.
Whether it’s supporting firefighting efforts in the Grampians or helping during local storms, the CFA volunteers make themselves available whenever they’re needed most, often putting their personal lives on hold.
For Mr Rhodes, seeing the same faces return year after year to support the jumble sale is one of the highlights of the event.
“We appreciate the community support, both with donations of goods and then with coming along to purchase. It’s something that’s grown over the years, and it’s amazing to see the same faces come back, knowing that we’re all in this together,” he said.
Upwey CFA’s 54th annual jumble sale isn’t just a fundraiser; it’s a celebration of the community’s heart and generosity.
Mr Rhodes is encouraging everyone to come down to the Upwey CFA hall on Saturday, 3 May, to grab a bargain, enjoy some tasty food, and feel good knowing that every cent you spend helps support the brave volunteers who keep our community safe.
