Bairnsdale has said no to bullying after a local business raised almost $11,000 in 10 days to support antibullying initiative, Dolly’s Dream.
Dolly’s Dream was set up by Kate and Tick Everett after their daughter, Dolly, took her life in January 2018.
On May 10, Dolly’s Dream held the inaugural Do It For Dolly Day, when Australia was asked to spread kindness, colour itself blue (Dolly’s favourite colour) and raise funds and awareness.
Communities around Australia dressed in blue, held fundraisers and wore Dolly’s Dream merchandise to help the Everetts commemorate this special day.
More than $50,000 was raised altogether.
Owner of Bairnsdale Horse Centre, Carlee Knight, said the entire Bairnsdale community came together to raise the funds.
“I wanted to show other towns that anyone can make a difference,” Carlee said.
“I approached schools, businesses and other community organisations to help spread the anti-bullying message and raise funds for Dolly’s Dream.
“We had a great response.”
Carlee has been delivering the Dolly’s Dream message since February last year and in the process has donated more than $138,000 to the organisation, selling Dolly’s Dream merchandise, including the iconic blue shirts embroidered with Dolly’s words – “speak even if your voice shakes”.
As the parent of a four-yearold, Carlee is a firm believer in the power of the “Be Kind” message – the crux of the Dolly’s Dream philosophy.
“Bairnsdale really came together,” she said.
“I’m so proud of my community.”
PICTURED: Carlee Knight has helped raise almost $11,00 for Dolly’s Dream with Bairnsdale embracing the Do It For Dolly Day fundraiser on May 10. (Photo: Photos By Daysy)
