Dry July participants celebrated the half-way mark for their month without alcohol on Monday.
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At Bendigo Health, about 10 team members have taken up the challenge.
Rachel Mason normally enjoys the occasional glass of champagne.
This month the fundraising and foundation manager has been substituting green smoothies.
Tyrone Jones is, in his own words, a “boring old beer man”.
This July, it’s been water or coffee for him though.
Both have stepped up this July to raise funds for Bendigo Health’s Lucan Street accommodation.
They are among thousands of Australians swearing off alcohol this month, to raise money to support people affected by cancer.
Along with Napier Street and Nolan Street, the Lucan Street accommodation provides a comfortable place to stay for those who have to travel to Bendigo for treatment.
It’s an issue close to Mr Jones’ heart, as accommodation services manager.
Comfortable recliners are top of the list for the Lucan Street site, followed by lighting.
“We’re looking at the supply of some new reclining armchairs, that are really important for the patients to be able to relax in after they’ve had their treatment,” Mr Jones said.
“It can be a fairly traumatic time for them, so it’s just trying to supply a nice home away from home environment for them to relax after their treatment.”
Halfway through Dry July, both Mr Jones and Ms Mason are doing well.
It hasn’t all been smooth sailing however. Both have slipped off the wagon once.
Ms Mason enjoyed a champagne at her welcome drinks, and Mr Jones indulged in a beer at a football club function.
Fortunately, this year Dry July participants can purchase a ‘Golden Ticket’ for $25, which allows them a drink.
“It actually is a little bit of a challenge, you actually have to consider how many opportunities present to actually have a drink,” Ms Mason said.
“It does make you reflect on the fact that we should be considering healthy lifestyles and all that sort of thing.”
Mr Jones urged anyone interested in Dry July to jump on the wagon with Bendigo Health, or sponsor their efforts.
- More information at dryjuly.com/beneficiaries/bendigohealth