Doll and Bear Show raises money for a good cause

By Oliver Shedden

Aug 1, 2024

Echuca-Moama Uniting Church Doll and Bear Show organisers Liz Baxter and Kath Walsh. Photo by Aidan Briggs

The Echuca Doll Club has raised vital funds for a good cause at the annual Echuca-Moama Doll and Bear Show.

Community members gathered at Echuca Uniting Church Hall for the annual Echuca-Moama Doll and Bear Show on Saturday. Photos: Aidan Briggs

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The event was held at Echuca Uniting Church Hall on Saturday, July 27, from 9.30am to 4pm.

Every year, the show’s proceeds go to a local community group. This year’s recipient is Foodbank Echuca, which Echuca Neighbourhood House runs.

Despite not getting as many people through the door as it would’ve liked, the Echuca Doll Club still raised $800 for Foodbank through admission sales, doll sales and a raffle.

The club also had a stand with dolls made by the late Echuca Doll Club president Betty, who died late last year.

The proceeds from the sale of her dolls went to the Fred Hollows Foundation.

There were a variety of hand-crafted dolls of all shapes and sizes up for sale at the show. Photo by Aidan Briggs

Organiser Jenny Christie, daughter of long-time Echuca Doll Club member Cath Walsh, said that even with poor weather not bringing in a big crowd, the event still ran smoothly, and the club welcomed some new faces.

She also highlighted that the community has realised the amount of care and work that goes into creating the dolls, thus generating more interest.

“Considering we had poor weather, the day ran pretty smoothly,” she said.

“It was good because we got a few different faces than we usually do, which was nice. I think we have sparked a bit more interest in the community.

“I think the public was amazed at how much work went into the dolls. It’s not something that you can just make overnight; it’s a dying art, and you have to be very persistent with it.”