From left, CVLX assistant manager Lucas Fudge, with Ballarat SES controller Gordon Hicks and CVLX manager Jeff Paull.

A CHARITY auction at the Central Victorian Livestock Exchange in Ballarat has raised $6755 to support the Victoria’s State Emergency Service.

Organisers said the event was held to help recognise the important work of local volunteers throughout the recent floods.

Strong support from the local community led to 22 lambs across four pens sell for double the prices typically expected, with the CVLX matching the price for the last pen to ensure funds raised got an extra boost.

The CVLX fundraising event was made possible with the support of local agents, Charles Stewarts & Co, Elders Ltd, HF Richardson, Nutrien Livestock, and TB White & Sons Pty Ltd.

Additional funds were raised through donations made at a free sausage sizzle put on by the CVLX with the support of the Ballarat Meat Company.

CVLX manager, Jeff Paull, said he was delighted CVLX could play a role in supporting the efforts of local SES volunteers.

“The importance of the SES was felt during the recent flood event, so we are very pleased to have been able to place a spotlight on them today while raising much-needed funds to help contribute to ongoing resourcing.

“We set a $5,000 target and are happy to have exceeded this by raising more than $6,750 for the SES,” he said.

“Thank you to local agents for their donations and to everyone who attended to make this morning’s event a success.”

A SES communications vehicle helped inform the community about the agency’s work during the CVLX funding event.

Ballarat SES controller, Gordon Hicks, said the recent challenges posed by flooding reiterated the importance of the SES’ work and thanked CVLX, local agents and the community for their support.

“Our aim is always to be there when our community is in need, but this does require significant funding and resources,” Mr Hicks said.

“I extend our warmest thanks to CVLX for initiating today’s special auction, and to those who have donated funds, for recognising the contribution we make to maintaining the safety of families and community members across the region.”