Garage sale for farmers

THE South Coast branch of Union Aid Abroad (ALPEDA) is holding a garage sale to raise funds for an innovative project in East Timor.

The branch was launched in March last year at the University of Wollongong and since that time has a number or projects to improve the lifestyles of South East Asia.

The South Coast group held a dinner at the Thirroul Railway Institute Hall in December to raise money for a group of older rural women to better themselves spokesperson Liz Farrar said. The scheme enabled the women to make school uniforms and other clothing to sell in the local markets.

The group also contributed toward buying equipment for a Dili-based community radio station and now have their sights set on raising money for a sustainable agriculture training composting project in Fahisoi, East Timor.

"The soil around Fahisoi is very poor and there isn't much water," Ms Farrar said.

"This project will help villagers to grow more food for their families and for sale in the local market," Ms Farrar said.

"We plan to raise enough money to pay for trainers and for transportation so that farmers can take part in the training."

The fundraiser will take place on the corner of Spray Street and Cliff Pde Thirroul on Saturday February 25 offering some quirky and practical items for sale.

The group is asking for donations of saleable goods such as books, CDs, kitchenware and ornaments.

Anyone who can help with donations should contact 42280314 or 0412 250 3999 to arrange for goods to be collected.