The “Model Citizen of the Year Award” has to go to Carlotta – she is just that, a model. What started out as a fun thing at a Scarf Swap, a fabulous way to raise money to assist women with breast cancer in Goolwa and surrounding districts, has been the laugh of the town.
There is a wonderful European wedding tradition whereby relatives and other guests at the reception pin money to the bride’s wedding dress, and the team behind the Scarf Swap – Vanessa Mulhall, Cheryl Baxter, Rosemary Sage and Caroline Margaret – thought of using the concept.
The girls bought a second-hand wedding dress at an op shop, and borrowed a dressmaking model, and called her Carlotta. They introduced her at the Scarf and Swap at the Goolwa Aquatic Club whereby guests donated a scarf or two, and bought one back. The response to the local cause was again outstanding.
There was one problem – poor Carlotta was without her groom, so past Alexandrina Councillor Rick Medlyn was given the honour at the Scarf Swap. It was such a big hit that Carlotta then made special appearances at the shopping centre, and over the previous month kind locals pinned $395 on her.
The money is used to support local women who have battled with breast cancer. It is a tough ordeal both physically and mentally, and locals have been able to help them in various ways through fundraising – with an emphasis on the “fun”.
Vanessa and Rosemary were behind the idea of “Bustin’ Out” last October whereby ladies painted their old bras – and raised $6000.
Carlotta is now doing her part to help, and it hasn’t come without a shock – the original owner spotted her old wedding dress in the shopping mall, and couldn’t stop laughing, saying she was thrilled it was being used for a wonderful cause. Well done to her!
The girls have planned another big fundraiser – a High Tea afternoon with a magnificent spread of cakes and bikkies on October 13. Look out for this stunning bride, and we’ll keep you informed about the High Tea.