General News
15 May, 2026
Love Your Mum raises $45,000
Horsham’s second Love Your Mum event has proved a massive success, raising $25,000 for Grampians Health’s Yandilla maternity unit at Horsham and a further $20,000 for Royal Flying Doctors Services.
The charity event is the combined creation of Horsham community member Robyn Lardner and big-hearted culinary queens Maria and Teresa Marchesini, with a cast of generous supporters giving their time and energy to support local health.
For the mums and their families who attended, it was an afternoon of delicious treats, health education, and entertainment.
Guests arriving at Horsham Town Hall on Mother’s Day were greeted by a garden scene with pianist Sandra Kitchen and supporter Des Lardner welcoming them.
Penny, Audrey and Georgia were ready with floral wristlets before guests sat at their tables.
Lee Elliott arranged the table setting with cloches of birds and bird cages, conjuring up all things garden.
Full-time paramedic and part-time performer Molly Magee entertained the 130-strong crowd with her vocal-guitar talents, and emcee Emma Clarke kept the raffles and spot prizes flowing with more than 60 Horsham businesses donating to the event and ensuring there were plenty of happy winners.
Answering questions from Emma, Grampians Health Horsham site manager Maree Markby and Royal Flying Doctor Service Director of Philanthropy Sue Parkes spoke about the services they provide to the community and the constant need for donations to ensure safe care. Maree spoke
Contributing heavily to the event’s success were the volunteer kitchen team, many of whom wore aprons made by Adelaide quilters Kathy Thomas and Suzanne Sutton.
The aprons, designed with a floral theme, were sold after the event.
Suzanne is well known for her memory blankets for people in palliative care.
Robyn Lardner said the event committee raised $15,000 for the Yandilla ensuite, and an anonymous donor provided a further $10,000, while another anonymous donor contributed $500.
A further $20,000 was also raised for the RFDS.
Maria Marchesini said the community's generosity and businesses' support had been overwhelming.
“My sister Teresa and I were blown away with the generosity of people, and this is why we do what we do, wanting to help within our community where possible,” Ms Marchesini said.
“Fortunately, we love cooking and love sharing with people.
"This is the second time we have hosted this event, and we are overwhelmed with the support received from 64 businesses, allowing us to increase our fundraising options and also give away another 30 gifts provided by mainly local businesses."
The savoury bites and sweet treats were all prepared by the Marchesini sisters, along with floral-themed cups, saucers and plates for every guest.
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