#rebuildmolong Community fundraising to save local sport

As the community of Molong works to rebuild flood-damaged businesses and homes,  passionate locals have turned their attention to getting the sports and recreational areas back to their former glory.

“It’s not going to overcome the extreme loss being felt by businesses and households, but if we can bring some relief to a town, when it is on its knees, to bring some normality back, then we think it is worth the effort to build momentum to gain some support,” proud Molong resident Kate Strahorn said.

Together, with other members of the community, Kate has set up a gofundme page — with the catchy title #rebuildmolong — to help restore the town’s ravaged sporting facilities, such as the devastated synthetic hockey field.

“All of our sporting and recreational spots have been damaged in one way or another,” Cassandra Sullivan, another organisers behind #rebuildmolong, said.

“Our hockey field is symbolic of the destruction that occurred in the town, but the money will be distributed to the sporting funds as required – we’re working with Cabonne Council to understand where the needs are,” she said.

The #rebuildmolong gofundme page has seen lots of support already.

“We reached $28,000 dollars in three days. It’s definitely generating a lot of awareness and support,” Cassandra said. 

Channel 7 breakfast show, Sunrise aided awareness this week broadcasting a story in support of the fundraiser.

Molong has produced some tremendous sporting talent, such as the 14 Molong Hockey Club members recently picked for the under 15’s NSW State Hockey Training squad.

It’s why Cassandra believes it is important that the damage sport precincts are rebuilt as fast as possible.

“Our hope is that we have some sort of solution before the next season — for hockey, soccer, rugby. That would be the ideal scenario,” Cassandra said. 

Hockey committee member, Hayley Lyons’ two daughters, Abbie and Phoebe Lyons have both represented NSW in hockey and they are hoping to have the chance to play locally again next winter season.

“It would be amazing to have it all back up and running before April next year,” Hayley said hopefully.

To donate, simply visit https://gofund.me/2c3a12c8