The Hawkesbury community has once again shown the great depths of its generosity, digging deep to raise a record amount for local Rural Fire Service (RFS) crews at the 2019 Hanna Park Carols held in December.
Locals turned out in droves despite the fires, weather and smoke, raising $10,000 through a voluntary collection during the annual Christmas celebration at North Richmond.
The Hanna Park Carols Committee, together with Hawkesbury Valley Baptist Church minister Phil Evans, handed the cheque to the crew at Grose Wold RFS two Thursdays ago.
Of that, $4,000 will be used by the Grose Wold RFS to buy new equipment and upgrade their station, while the other $6,000 will be distributed to crews across the Hawkesbury.
Grose Wold RFS has been a constant partner of the Hanna Park Carols since its inception 14 years ago, providing assistance with parking, crowd-control and monitoring the fireworks display.
Grose Wold RFS Captain Sean Killen thanked the community for its generous donations.
"On behalf of Grose Wold and Hawkesbury District RFS, I would like to thank the Hawkesbury community," Cpt Killen said.
"We look forward to supporting the carols. It's a great way to finish the year.
"We appreciate the donations but it's not about the money. It's about being a part of a community that supports each other.
"We have been happy to assist the Church with this popular free event, which has grown so much over the years, and hope we can continue to help into the future."
Phil Evans said he was blown away by the generosity shown at the 2019 carols.
"This donation by far exceeded all our expectations! It is a testament to the love, kindness and the spirit of mateship that the Hawkesbury is known for," he said.
"Over the past few months I have been touched by both the stories of hardship from affected communities around Bilpin, Kurrajong Heights and Colo, but also the stories of courage and sacrifice.
"It is easy to feel helpless in the face of these circumstances and I am proud that so many took the opportunity at the carols to make a big difference.
"It makes me proud to serve and be part of this beautiful community."
Planning has already begun for the 2020 Hanna Park Carols.
