General News

17 October, 2025

Bandannas, BBQ and big hearts - Blooms the Chemist backs Canteen

THE team at Blooms the Chemist have thrown their support behind the annual Bandanna Day campaign to raise funds for children’s cancer charity Canteen. Pharmacy assistant Kate Bligh is organising this year’s fundraiser, which includes bandanna sales, a sausage sizzle and raffle. Canteen is an Australian charity that provides a wide range of free support services to help young people (aged between 12-25) dealing with either their own diagnosis, a close family member's cancer or the death of a loved one. Canteen also supports parents dealing with cancer in their family. Pharmacy customers can purchase a raffle ticket in store to win a barbeque donated by David O Jones Mitre 10 valued at $399. There are also a variety of colourful bandannas on sale for $7 in store with all proceeds going to Canteen. On Thursday the 30th of October, the Blooms staff will be hosting a fundraising sausage sizzle with support from Bakers Delight and Pyrenees Premium Cuts. Kate told the Advocate she hopes to increase the amount raised from this year’s campaign. “I’ve set my goal this year at $2,000. Last year I made about $1,300 and that was in just one month because I didn’t know about it until later. I’m already up to $1,400 already but the event isn’t for another three weeks so I hope I’ll reach my target by then,” she said. For Kate, the Bandanna Day fundraiser is personal. “My aunty was diagnosed with breast cancer quite a few years ago and my cousins were young at the time and they didn’t have the support that these young kids are getting now through Canteen. But also, Dale’s dad passed away 12 months ago from cancer so it’s close to home, but I also feel it’s a really good cause as well,” she said. Donations can be made at Blooms the Chemist in Barkly Street or people can donate by using the QR code and chose the option "donate to Kate".

By Craig Wilson

Read More: Ararat

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