“It’s called community,” was shouted from the crowd at “Tootapalooza” while Kate Shanley expressed how overwhelmed she was about the support her family has been given over the past 12 months.
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When her 13 year-old daughter, Tallulah (Toot) Nixon was diagnosed with acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia, the family was told there would be three years of ongoing treatment.
It didn’t take long for the Gloucester community to start pulling together support for the family. Fundraising events have been held around the town, from school activities to sporting events.
Recently, Andy Parker, Bec Willis and Lee Clapson wanted to do something to help their friends, so they approached Maree Grady to see what they could put together and Tootalapoolza was born.
The music festival was held out the back of the Avon Valley Inn, in conjunction with The Fox Den, on Sunday, November 20 and raised around $30,000 for the family.
Around 500 people came to watch The Grasscutters, The Southern Understars, The Bowden Brothers and Harry Hookey play.
The fundraising was monitored throughout the event on the Toot-O-Meter, from things like an auction, raffle and face painting. Some people even purchased a week’s worth of groceries for the family, covering $100 per week for a year.
Toot’s parents Kate Shanley and Shane Nixon delivered a heart-felt thank you to Gloucester for all the support.
“It’s been a tough year. You guys have been brilliant. If it wasn’t for you, we wouldn’t have gotten through this year,” Kate said.
Toot is one year into her three year treatment plan and the prognosis is very positive, but the family has a long road ahead.
“Every time she has a temperature or isn’t feeling well, they have to take her to Newcastle,” Lee explained.
The funds raised for the family go toward bills, medication and supporting the family when they have to spend time in Newcastle.
All the prizes that were raffled and auctioned where donated by members of the community.
“We didn’t have to ask anyone for anything, people just kept offering,” Maree said.
“The community has been amazing.”
Lee said they will be looking to do it again next year in order to keep up the support.
Anne Keen
Anne has been a journalist with the ACM (Australia Community Media) since 2016. She primarily works at the Gloucester Advocate but also contributes to the Manning River Times.
Anne has been a journalist with the ACM (Australia Community Media) since 2016. She primarily works at the Gloucester Advocate but also contributes to the Manning River Times.
