By EMILY ROBINSON
An estimated 100 people sleeping rough on Geelong’s streets will benefit from a community fundraiser as cold winter weather blasts the region again this weekend.
Proceeds from Blues for Blankets will go to The Road Home, which works with Barwon South West Homelessness Network to provide swags, blankets and hygiene products to people in need.
Geelong’s Sleepy Hollow Blues Club has lined a variety of acts to perform voluntarily for the fundraiser at Geelong Trades Hall on Sunday afternoon.
The event is particularly timely given the forecasts of a return to cold winter weather and strong winds this weekend.
Saturday is set for a maximum of 11C and Sunday 12C, with the wind-chill factor to push temperatures much lower on the streets at night.
Blues club event co-ordinator Richard Drew said he had been working closely with Barwon South West Homelessness Network co-ordinator Andrew Edgar to “pull the show together”.
“Normally we run a monthly gig but this July we’ve decided to do a fundraiser instead,” Mr Drew said.
The organisers hope to emulate the success of Melbourne blues man Greg Dodd who came up with the Blues for Lost Souls event three years ago.
The events are getting bigger and better every year – last almost 300 people attended.
“We want to build on it year after year and make this into a regular event,” he said.
Mr Drew said acts on the would include Blue Sunday, Brian Fraser Band, Buxom Blues, Derek and the Champs, Kevin Hay, Mud Peas, OM and the Pea, Righteous Desmond, The Billy Tea Bush Band, The Von Robertsons and Wayne Jury.
“We’ve tried to get lots of local artists across a spectrum of musical genres. All performers have freely donated their time across the event.
“There’ll also be a barbecue running throughout the afternoon with soft drinks provided.”
Mr Edgar said homelessness in Geelong was an “increasing problem”.
“We’re struggling to locate the resources to assist people in a timely manner.
“All money and resources raised on Sunday will go straight back into the region.”
Mr Edgar described the reaction to Blues for Blankets as “phenomenal”.
“It’s been fantastic to see the response from the community.”
Blues for Blankets tickets are available at the door or online from trybooking.com/LYTT, with more information available at sleepyhollowbluesclub.org.au.
