Since their story appeared in the Merimbula News Weekly two weeks ago, several local businesses, Rex Airlines, Bobbins Transport, Merimbula Bus Lines and Merimbula Air Services, have jumped aboard.

“After reading the story in the newspaper Neville Bobbins and Paul Pincini picked up the phone and have generously donated to the cause. REX is also a major sponsor and Andy at Merimbula Air Services is also supporting us,” Bryan said.

The duo will take charge of a 1978 HZ Holden as part of the 2012 ‘the Great Escape’, and will hopefully achieve their goal of $10,000 throughout the 10-day rally.

The rally will leave Orange, in the state’s central west, on Monday, October 8, before finishing in Merimbula on Thursday, October 18.

Their major fund-raiser will be held this Friday, May 25, to coincide with the annual 65 Roses day, which is aimed at raising awareness and much needed funds for research into finding a cure for cystic fibrosis.

The wine tasting and auction night will be held at the Grange function centre, South Pambula.

Four wine companies will be represented with 39 wines on offer.

Merimbula Bus Lines will be running a bus service picking up at Twyford Hall at 5.50pm, Pambula Beach bus shelter at 6pm, Bald Hills at 6.10pm and the Pambula Post Office at 6.20pm.

Tickets are $25 per person, which includes wine tasting, nibbles and entertainment from the Wright to Rhythm. Tickets are available from Ameldas on Twyford, Little Bottlo Pambula and ARV Caravans in Eden.

For enquiries phone Bryan Hammond 0407 957 570 or Ricky Holt on 0415 423 293.