Well the talent at Macquarie Island knows no bounds this year. Many hours have been spent constructing items to sell for the end of year auction, coupled with an End of Year formal dinner and a wine club night… maybe in a sly attempt to lubricate cashed up Expeditioners. All guaranteeing an all-round good night.
It was decided to donate the money raised to an appropriate charity in memory of Mike Coombe. Mike was the Diesel Mechanic here at Macquarie Island just last season. He suddenly passed away recently. Shane, our current Dieso, contacted Mike’s family and offered that we might do this; putting the money towards a charity that would have meant something to him. It was decided the charity would be the “Mark Grundy Oesophageal Cancer Awareness Group”.
After an amazing meal, thanks to Annie our Chef, and a variety of well appreciated wines the action kicked off! Joe our auctioneer stepped up, revved up, and commanded the floor with a loud barrage of fast paced Auctioneer lingo that made us think he was far more than just a great Chippy! The bidding was conservative at first but soon got super competitive, with people fighting for the rights to own the merchandise on offer. One interesting item was the last Cherry Ripe on station which was in a lovely display case and hotly contested. It ended up going for $480!
The most expensive item of the night was a beautiful watercolour of Gadgets Gully by our Amazingly talented FTO Jessy. It sold for $2465!!
The total moneys raised was well over $12,000. A fantastic result and a fantastic night was certainly had by all. It was a great way to close out the social events of our season.
Danny Phillips, Plant Operator
