Summer Sizzler at Sale
On Saturday, 20th of January, about 30 people attended the Gippsland Parish ‘Summer Sizzler’ at Sale, a follow-up to the successful July ‘Winter Warmer’ at Traralgon. This ‘Australia Day’ styled event was also a fund raiser for the very worthy ‘Asia Focus Australia’ Lutheran charity which promotes Christian mission worldwide.
The annual, prestigious and hard fought ‘thong throwing’ contest opened the occasion, with Kylie Bentham the winner. This was followed by a traditional Aussie BBQ and salads, with thanks to the Sale members.
Michael Groves spoke about his nine-day Asia Focus visit to Chiang Rai, northern Thailand, with 22 other Australian Lutherans. A special highlight was visiting the land purchased by Asia Focus for displaced Lahu refugees with the water supply by the Thai government and the refugees establishing a viable settlement! At Tahaw village the group helped construct a rice mill while learning the intricacies of village life.
Ritva Hannola spoke of the importance and effectiveness of Asia Focus in enriching impoverished people the world over, but especially in Asia and Africa, through material support and the proclaiming of the Gospel.
‘Just desserts’ followed, whereby attendees brought a dessert to share for the fundraiser. People voted with their wallets, with over $600 raised for Asia Focus and the surprise winner being Michael’s strawberry jelly. Sweet success!
Pastor Tony Castle and Michael Groves then led a ‘Spicks and Specks’ style set of engaging musical activities and songs.
A joyfully blessed day of fundraising, fellowship and laughs.
Pastor Tony Castle with this year’s legendary Thong Throwing competition winner, Kylie Bentham. She keeps the trophy for a year!
