Geoffrey Keaton & Andrew O'Dwyer NSW RFS
***2.1.2020 Update***
Hi all, After days of waiting for a sound resolution, I’ve elected Mr Warren Spriggs as beneficiary in order to cash two cheques to the families as efficiently as possible. Unfortunately the process of extracting raised funds from gofundme accounts has been more convoluted than expected. While it’s unsure when the RFS raised funds will make it into the hands of the two families, Warren’s own $380,000+ total and my $47,000+ total are on their way. I will be relieved to see the community’s donations handed over and look forward to sharing a photo when this is done. Sam
***Campaign Update: 21/12/19 @ 10:00pm***
Hi all,
Following the staggering number of contributions, and many queries from those who've contributed to this particular fund - I will END this campaign today. The lovely staff at GoFundMe Australia will set to work preparing a transfer to the Keaton and O'Dwyer families. It's come to my attention that in fact 3 public campaigns have run simultaneously & successfully over the past 72 hours.
1) "Geoffrey Keaton & Andrew O'Dwyer NSW RFS" - hosted by myself, has reached over $32,000
2) "Helping 2 volunteer fire fighters families" - hosted by Mr James Bennett has reached over $36,000
3) "Keaton and O'Dwyer" - hosted by Mr Warren Spriggs has reached a whopping $233,000
Guided by the emails and messages I've received from the generous donors on our page here - I agree to end the campaign this weekend to prevent any further delay of your money making its way to Geoff and Andrews wives. I will not be transferring your donations to the RFS fund, as the overwhelming consensus is that you want your money to go to the ladies and their children NOW. GoFundMe will prepare the finances and I will provide progress updates HERE as it happens. If there is to be any sort of a 'hand-over' you will be updated here beforehand. Thank you for your contributions Australia!!!
People wanting to donate further are encouraged to visit;
> https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/news-and-media/general-news/featured/support-for-firefighter-families
I will honour the trust you've put in me, parting with your money and endeavor to have the collated amount where it needs to be as soon as possible. This is my first ever crowd-funding campaign and appreciate your patience.
Sam Maclean, Epping NSW.