It’s been almost two months since Lincon Goard’s devastating football injury and during that time, efforts to help the Goard family have been ongoing throughout the community – including the long-awaited ‘Binnaway Bombshells Barefoot Bowls’ fund-raiser at the Binnaway Bowling Club, which successfully raised over $10,000.

Held on Saturday, 7 September, event organiser, Melissa Meyers said the turn out was strong, with 56 players including Bombshells team mates, committee members and supporters creating a uplifting atmosphere on the day.

“There was a lot of outside community support, which was great to see, and we even had a guest of honour for a couple of hours in Lincon himself,” Mrs Meyers said.

“As a Club, we do what we can to look after our players.

“This was our thing to make sure Lincon and his family know we are here to support them.”

Across the day, fund-raising efforts included a barbecue, ales, a raffle, and auction items, with raffle sellers being kept on their feet.

“The idea of a bowls’ tournament was a bit of fun for the end of the season, where everyone could get involved, plus it supported our major Bombshells’ sponsor,” Mrs Meyers said.

“Everyone enjoyed themselves while supporting a good cause.”

Mrs Meyers said the event ran smoothly, despite having so many things running at once, with people jumping in to help wherever they could, without being asked.

All funds will be directed to the Goard family to assist Lincon with his rehabilitation and travel costs, and support him until he is able to return to work.

“We are hoping it will help ease the financial burden they have endured over the past couple of months while Lincon and both his parents were unable to work while he was in Sydney.

“We can’t thank everyone enough that donated, helped organise, contributed to the day, bought tickets, got involved playing bowls – and just showed up to support.

“It was an amazing effort for a small town.” Although the Goard family was unable to make an appearance, Nicole Goard passed on a message of thanks to Mrs Meyers, which was read on the day.

Mrs Goard said Lincon continued to improve each day and continued to work hard to regain his movement and muscle strength.

“Lincon loved training and playing for the Binnaway Bombshells, and often commented on how supportive the committee and training was.

“He has now retired his football boots, but he is keen on helping in any capacity he can next year under the Bombshells.”

Mrs Goard stressed her and her family’s gratitude for the community support.

“On behalf of our whole family, thank you everyone.

“These words really do not express how grateful our family is for all that is happening here in Binnaway to help Lincon with his recovery.

“Thank you to all who have donated raffles, the Binnaway Bowling Club, the wonderful people behind the scenes making this all happen and for the generosity of you all.”

“Mark, Anna, myself and Lincon are blown away by your support.”

TO DONATE: https://www.gofundme.com/f/lincons-recovery-after-suffering-a-spinal-injury