The Kiama community is invited to a fundraiser at Kiama Anglican Church on Saturday (26 July), with a firm 10am start time, and running till 4pm with 100% of funds raised to support vital medical care in one of the poorest regions of Madagascar.

The event will feature a BIG quality book fair, lots of beautiful bric-a-brac treasures, a $5 cuppa with baked treats, and a sausage sizzle - raising funds for a newly established medical clinic in Toliara, Madagascar.

The clinic was recently opened by Dr Avril Friend, an Australian GP who has committed to working for 15 years in the region, where healthcare is extremely limited.

Avril initially stocked the clinic with basic supplies brought from Australia, but more equipment is urgently needed.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will help purchase items from Avril’s medical wish list, including a portable ultrasound device that fits in the palm of your hand and connects to a phone, a compact ECG machine, a portable defibrillator, and essential medications and supplies.

Kiama resident Barb Friend is organising the fundraiser and is also Avril’s mother-in-law.

“We’re deeply thankful for everyone’s generosity and hope for a strong turnout on 26 July,” she said.

Barb is hoping to raise $10,000, which will go a long way toward equipping the clinic and supporting the local community in Toliara.