ORANA was in the spotlight on 25 November when it hosted a fundraising dinner featuring Australia’s greatest ever marathon runner, Robert de Castella, who spoke about exercise and healthy ageing.

The Commonwealth Games marathon gold medallist, who dominated the event worldwide for most of the 1980s, has now turned his attention to promoting lifelong nutrition and exercise. He is passionate about preventing obesity in children, giving them a sense of self-worth through sport, and is a strong advocate for staying active as long as possible into old age.

Around 200 people attended the gala event which featured a delicious banquet, raffles and musical entertainment. Attendees also enjoyed the trailer for an inspiring documentary entitled Running to America. The documentary charts the journey Deek took with Indigenous youth from remote Australian communities to prepare them to compete in the New York Marathon.

South Burnett Regional Council Mayor David Carter made a speech, and notable attendees included Member for Nanango Dororthy Pratt and Lady Florence Bjelke-Petersen. Several media representatives covered the event. Funds raised went towards providing a much-needed bus for residents and the dinner was strongly supported by local business sponsors.

Orana took centre-stage again the next day. The fun continued with a community market featuring local produce, plants and amusements. The residents’ stall featuring home-made crafts raised $400. The day was so successful there are plans to make the markets a regular event.