Flower power
Not only is John O’Dea the treasurer of Mature Aged Gays (MAG) but he has also raised essential funds for the organisation by selling his prized garden treasures.
Starting out as a hobby, O’Dea’s passion for growing flowers has turned into a serious moneymaker. For several years his plants have been sold at the MAG Fair Day store. The funds raised on the day have become a vital source of income for the community group.
Each year MAG has raised $2000 on flower sales alone. Normally the funds would go towards the group’s Mardi Gras float but this year the parade entry is not a feasible option.
“We are not having a float this year. We are walking this year with ACON for the first time as it’s too expensive,” O’Dea said.
“The last four years we have hired the double-decker bus and by the time you hire the bus for eight hours and decorate it, it works out at nearly $4000 to put an entry in the parade.
“Instead of splurging all the funds on one night, it’s going to be used in the general funds to help pay for food, entertainment, extra functions or additional costs.”
MAG is hoping to raise at least $2000 at Fair Day again. Rock orchids, argave and slipper orchids will be on sale.
info: Fair Day is on Sunday, February 21, Victoria Park, Camperdown. For more details on purchasing flowers, call 9521 1953.
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