SATURDAY marks the last day of summer, so it seems only fitting to reflect on and honour the firefighters who have fought hard to protect life and property this past year.
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National Red Balloon Day (NRBD), which encourages people from all walks of life to simply purchase a 'Thank You Fireys' red balloon and display where it can be noticed, will be held tomorrow.
The event has been inspired by a similar initiative in Geelong in early 2014.
Bendigo woman Jody Hardiman thought to take the idea nationwide annually, so created an event on Facebook for 'National Red Balloon Day' with the aim to honour and thank the brave and courageous fire fighters Australia wide.
The concept is simple, to fly a 'Thank You Fireys' balloon from letterboxes, fences and business windows tomorrow (the last official day of Summer in Australia), to let fire fighters know just how much their dedication, hard work and tireless efforts in protecting lives, homes and communities has been appreciated throughout the year.
Often fire fighters (both professional and volunteers) leave their family, home or community to help protect others.
Together with the sale of the 'Thank You Fireys' Red Balloons and other merchandise which includes 'Thank You Fireys' bumper stickers, stubby holders and gift packs the intiative hopes to not only recognise fire fighting heroes, but to assist in raising funds for State Fire Services or services which support fire fighters in times of hardship.
All proceeds from this fundraising event will go directly back to the state from which they are purchased.
To purchase some of the National Red Balloon Day merchandise, visit Shear Styling, 79 Main Street, Stawell or head online http://www.nationalredballoonday.org/merchandise.html.
All profits from each sale go directly back to fire services (CFA or Metropolitan Fire Brigade) in Victoria. National Red Balloon Day does not make any money for itself.
It is hoped however, that with further sponsorship and Government support in the future, this NRBD can grow to see more funds raised for State Fire Services.
On January 1, 2015 NRBD became a registered charity listed on the National Charities register and on January 13 it was granted Tax Deductible Gift Recipient Status - therefore any donations made to National Red Balloon Day (Red Balloon Day Inc) over $2 are tax deductible.
