The Golden Square centre raised about $17,000 in donations - an amount which far exceeded director Emily Gerber's expectations. 

"We were thinking we would get around $6000," she said. 

"To raise what we did is terrific.

"We are thrilled."  

Mr Gerber said all donations would go directly to Patiya's family and her mother Kristy Thomson. 

She said there was also a balloon release in memory of Patiya on the day.  

Patiya May was killed when a tree fell in Rosalind Park on December 30. 

Her mother Kristy Thomson was seriously injured in the accident and is unlikely to ever walk again. 

Fundraising events for the Kristy Thomson Appeal coming up include a 12-band rock concert at the Golden Vine Hotel on February 2, and bike ride and family day at the Allies Hotel on February 16. 

To register a event for the Kristy Thomson Appeal email emma@mckern.net.au and for all other inquiries contact fundraising committee chairman Michael McKern on michael@mckern.net.au

Donations can also be made by visiting the Bendigo Advertiser website. 

For more photographs from the Goodstart Early Learning fundraiser turn to page 30.