Yaris set to rev up Gracelands auction

STAR TURN: Gracelands executive support officer Tash Morris (right) and commercial leader Martyn Parkes join Waikato Toyota Te Awamutu branch manager Diane McFarlane in showing off the new Toyota Yaris which will be the feature lot at the Gracelands Charity Fundraising Auction Dinner to be held at the Events Centre next Wednesday. 067071AD

Organisers of Gracelands Charity Fundraising Auction Dinner next week are rapt that a brand new sporty Toyota Yaris has been donated to the cause.

The car will be one of the undoubted stars of the evening, although probably not a ‘dancing star’ like host Jason Gunn.

The ‘Dancing with the Stars’ host is fresh from his preparations for the current programme to help out the worthy cause.

Gracelands wants to raise $2 Million to build a two-storey regional service centre on its Teasdale Street site that will upscale its administration, training and support for a network of 14 operational sites. While Gracelands is looking to philanthropic trusts for support, fundraising activities such as the Charity Auction will assist the project. Gracelands will also be approaching the community for their support which is a first for the organisation.

“Everyday we receive donations from individuals for which we are really grateful but to raise $2 Million is going to take a more strategic and targeted approach,” says CEO and founder Robyn Klos. “This is why a fundraising committee made up of local community people has been vital for this project. This event promises to be an exciting fun time for everyone involved.”

There has been widespread support from businesses houses and individuals to the Charity Auction Dinner, which is to be held on Wednesday, March 21 at the Te Awamutu Events Centre. A great range of items for the main auction and the ‘silent auction’ have been donated. The highlight will be the auction of a Toyota Yaris sponsored by Waikato Toyota. Or maybe for some it will be the Hereford Bull. Whatever your preference, there will be something for everyone to bid on. Other lots include a range of art works, fertiliser, weekend packages, a kingsize bed and outdoor furniture.

Waikato Toyota Te Awamutu branch manager Diane McFarlane says she is pleased the company is able to help with the fundraising venture. She says Gracelands are good clients for Waikato Toyota, so this is their way of giving something back.

Te Awamutu staff went all out to ensure the new Yaris was kitted out with sports body kit, spoiler and 17” alloys to add to its appeal. The winner of the auction can chose to keep the car, or could use it to upgrade to a bigger model.

Tables and tickets are selling well with real interest from businesses in the Waikato area taking the opportunity to invite their key customers and suppliers and staff.

The evening begins at 6.30pm and promises to be highly entertaining with Jason Gunn no doubt adding his bit of flair and excitement.

Tickets are available from Gracelands in Te Awamutu (ph 871 6410). They cost $150 a person or $1500 a table.