CatholicCare's Annual St Patrick's Race Day again proved very successful in raising much needed funds for a unique service to CatholicCare.
The SIBS program is a self-funded initiative that places a special focus on the brothers and sisters of kids with disability. Through Saturday Sibs Club, children aged 5-12 years get the chance to relax, unwind and escape their caring duties. They get to meet others who share the experience of disability and form long lasting friendships.
Bishop Peter Ingham along with CatholicCare Director, Kath McCormack welcomed approximately 350 people on the day who gathered in support of this worthy cause.

Guests came from far and wide including flying in from interstate and overseas to support our event. Many indulged in a flutter on the horses and bid on items in our best ever silent auction- it was wonderful to see everyone getting involved somehow.

The highlight for fashion lovers is without a doubt the 'Fashions in the Room' competition, which has continued to grow in popularity over the last few years. This year, guests stepped up the fashion stakes and made it quite difficult for the mystery judge who was brought in. Bright colours were a popular choice this year, with guest dressing like they were making the most out of the rare autumn sunshine.

Family & Sibling Support Coordinator Kath Walsh, gave a heart-warming speech on the day, illustrating how funds raised will go a long way towards knocking down a few more fences in the streets of the suburb called 'disability'.
"The Family and Sibling Support Program connects those brothers and sisters of kids with special needs. The program gives them a neighbourhood in which to play safely, and they can share the experience of disability and learn that they are not alone."

Events like this are vital in ensuring the SIBS program continues to provide siblings of kids with a disability and their family critical respite and support.
Disability impacts everyone in the family and by supporting this program we are acknowledging, validating and raising awareness for sibling issues.

We sincerely thank our dedicated fundraising committee, the Illawarra Turf Club and our generous sponsors and donors for their contributions, support and presence leading up to and on the day.
Successful events like this are not possible without help, so we acknowledge and appreciate all who lent a hand.

To see pictures from the day, visit our events page.
To learn more about the SIBS program, visit the Family & Sibling Support page.