A month of dedicated fundraising was launched yesterday at Goulburn Valley Health’s child and adolescent unit.

The annual Give Me 5 For Kids fundraiser kicked off with a live broadcast on Triple M Goulburn Valley with presenter Sean Cullen at the hospital yesterday.

GV Health paediatrics clinical director Dr Dan Garrick said each year funds raised went toward the child and adolescent unit and maternity services at GV Health.

‘‘Every year we focus on the emerging needs,’’ he said.

‘‘In Shepparton, at GV Health, we want to be up with it and we want to have the best equipment.’’

This year Dr Garrick said funds would be put toward the children’s special care unit for beds that enable the high flow of oxygen to babies, preventing the need to transfer babies to Melbourne.

Maternity services manager Carmel Brophy said the isolette beds costed around $29,000 each.

‘‘We’re very lucky (to have Give Me 5 For Kids),’’ she said.
Dr Garrick said many people in the community had been involved with the children’s services at the hospital.

‘‘Many families have had kids looked after here,’’ he said.

He said this was why the Shepparton community dug so deep for the annual fundraiser.

One resident who has contributed to Give Me 5 For Kids locally for many years is Linda Ladas.

Ms Ladas began running an annual plant sale three year’s ago but contributed in many different ways through their former-family-owned cafe in the past.

‘‘I raised $2,500 last year,’’ she said and added it took the entire year to prepare for the sale.

Lisa’s Plant Sale will be held on June 15 at 34 Canterbury Ave, Shepparton. For more information phone Lisa on 5821 6866.

There are several other events happening throughout June. To find out about event happening this month refer to the above calendar or visit the Triple M Goulburn Valley Facebook page. 

For more information about Give Me 5 For Kids visit www.giveme5forkids.com.au/