We all know that times can be tough.

In the bush we face drought, flood, harsh summers, lack of facilities.

We have to travel for a lot of things, whether they may be medical specialist or many other services.

One very important service comes to us in the bush when we most need it.

When life itself is in jeopardy the Royal Flying Doctors Service is there.

We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the organisers on the Gympie Muster in Queensland during August this year.

The wonderful program Landline on ABC, who are great supporters of the RFDS, stated that they had an attendance of 75,000 people at the muster and raised approximately half a million dollars for the Royal Flying Doctors Service.

Fundraising events, like this one are a very important part of keeping these important part of keeping these vital services going in Australia, we all would want the Royal Flying Doctors Service to have the best equipment available.

Well, this takes effort!

Now it's Lightning Ridge's turn to put in the effort and raise money.

With the 75th anniversary of the Royal Flying Doctors Service and the 10th anniversary of opal being Australia's national gemstone occurring this year, we have more reason than ever before to raise money.

On October 4, Lightning Ridge will host a ball to help raise funds for this important charity.

Businesses have been very supportive and the organisers of this fun night have been able to offer the people of Lightning Ridge a discount so that tickets will only cost $30.

The organisers of the evening have arranged a 22 piece jazz band made up of university students from Toowoomba to entertain us.

So, we ask that all the people of Lightning Ridge come along, bring your families and friends

Let's fill the 400 seats in the bowling club, have a great night and feel proud when we hand a much appreciated cheque to the RFDS.

If you have a prior commitment please show your support through a donation or purchase a ticket anyway to be in the running for the lucky door prize - we will hold it for you.

Receipt books are available at the bowling club.

Mayor Peter Waterford

Karen Bruce 2003 Opal Queen