THE Byaduk Spring Show was a massive success earlier this month with more than 370 people walking through the door - proceeds went towards helping fund Western District Health Service’s (WDHS) new MRI machine.

Byaduk Spring Show president, Andy Kirkwood, said the show went to plan, with WDHS chair, Anna Sweeney, the guest speaker on the day.

Ms Kirkwood said the newly formed committee decided to donate all proceeds from the show towards funding the MRI machine.

Following the announcement of the donation, Ms Kirkwood, and WDHS chief executive, Rohan Fitzgerald, had a look at the current construction site of what will be the MRI waiting room.

“Together, we are so proud to be able to raise these funds and contribute, alongside so many other groups, to the MRI project for Hamilton and Western District Health Service,” Ms Kirkwood said.

“It was a really special moment to see the progress of the build at the hospital, and know that we have been a small part of a much bigger picture.”

Ms Kirkwood said while the Byaduk Spring Show’s future was in doubt last year, it was great to return it to its former glory and bring the community together.

“The Byaduk Spring Show has been running for 114 years, and in 2021 there was serious consideration of ceasing it, until a new young crew from the area all banded together to join the committee,” she said.

“We were especially excited about having the afternoon tea outside in a new marquee, purchased with the help of a grant from the Southern Grampians Shire, which lifted the atmosphere and connected people inside and out.”

Ms Kirkwood said it was great to come together as a community and donate the day’s funds towards a great cause.

“The experience of planning the show together, as well as sharing in the day, brought so many opportunities to connect as a small community, which has been a treat in itself after a couple of years of isolation” she said.

Mr Fitzgerald thanked the entire community for its generosity since the ‘MRI for U&I’ appeal first launched with the phenomenal community support raising almost $1.5 million.

“We are incredibly grateful to Andy and the Byaduk Spring Show Committee for directing the funds raised from the day to this important cause,” he said.

“The number of donors who have contributed to this project is unprecedented for WDHS - with over 900 individuals, community groups and businesses supporting the appeal.”

The MRI Pod is set to be installed early next year, and what better way to start the new year than with a gift for the Southern Grampians community.