A fundraiser dinner and raffle is being organised in March to help support Brogo tradie Ron Rae, who has been diagnosed with cancer.

Readers may remember Mr Rae’s own fundraising efforts when 12 months ago he shaved off his trademark long hair to raise money for cancer charities (11/1/13).

Mr Rae had already lost siblings to cancer and at the time, his brother was undergoing treatment for lung cancer and he wanted to show some bald solidarity. 

In a tragic turn of events, Mr Rae has now been diagnosed with it himself.

“It’s pretty hard on my parents,” Mr Rae said.

However, Mr Rae is determined not to focus on the negatives as he undergoes treatment, including chemotherapy, which has him unable to continue working as a plasterer and also requires trips to Canberra for specialist appointments.

“Chemo does knock you around a little bit. It could be worse though,” he said - to which his daughter Clancey quickly chips back “’little bit’ is putting it nicely”.

“I have good days and bad, but it’s no good dwelling on it and saying ‘poor me’.

“This is a hiccup in life, a speed bump.”

Mr Rae and his wife Lisa say the support from the community is “heart-warming”.

“It’s good to know we live where we live,” Mr Rae said.

“Small communities have a lot to say for themselves.

“The community backing is unreal – it’s overwhelming.”

“When something like this happens you see that community spirit and it’s very touching,” Ms Rae added.

“Belief is very powerful and it’s helpful when everyone around you is positive as well.”

To that end, March 1’s fundraiser is a quirky and fun celebration in support of Mr Rae.

“Rae’s Your Glass” will be held at the Homestead at Brogo from 5pm and include a hearty meal, indoor and outdoor raffles, music and novelty games.

Bookings are essential with tickets available from the Homestead – email info@thehomesteadbrogo.com.au or call 6492 7362 – or from Littleton Café, Cobargo Hotel, Quaama General Store, Bermagui Local Liquor and JD’s Meats in Bega.