Funds raised from the Redlands Sunset Cruise Bushfire Appeal on Saturday, January 25, will go directly to those impacted by fires on Kangaroo Island.
Mayor Karen Williams said she had called Kangaroo Island mayor Michael Pengilly to offer Redlands support as a fellow island community.
"Kangaroo Island has been hit hard by these fires, including the loss of two lives and about 170,000 hectares - or a third of the island's vegetation," Cr Williams said.
"As a city of islands, the Redlands holds a strong affiliation with Kangaroo Island. It was not long ago that we lost three quarters of North Stradbroke Island to bushfire and so it makes sense for the money we raise from this month's sunset cruise and associated events to go directly to their recovery."
"Working directly with the Kangaroo Island Council will also ensure every cent we raise goes directly to those in need, so we will be able to see the difference we are making."
Cr Williams said with SeaLink providing marine transport in both the Redlands and Kangaroo Island, there was an added affiliation between the two communities.
"When these fires hit Kangaroo Island I called SeaLink to see how we can help and they did not hesitate in providing a vessel for us to hold our sunset cruise," Cr Williams said.
"That sort of generosity has since spread with other businesses offering help including Sirromet Winery and the Grandview Hotel."
Kangaroo Island Mayor Michael Pengilly said he appreciated the help.
"Locals are hurting, but knowing our friends in the Redlands are thinking of us is a real boost," Cr Pengilly said.
"Funds raised from the Redlands will go directly towards helping locals impacted by the fires, including the more than 50 families who had lost homes and farmers who have lost their livelihoods ."
Sunset Cruise on the Bay Bushfire Appeal will depart Toondah Harbour at 5.30pm.
Tickets are $100 a head for a two-hour sunset cruise including nibbles with drinks available on board. Tickets are available online trybooking.com/book/event?eid=591054&.
Donations and corporate sponsorships are also welcome, with significant contributions to be acknowledged on the night. Tax deductible donations can be made at:
Redland Foundation Public Trust (ABN 64 813 137 537 Charity with DGR Status) BSB 484-799 Account: 014 388 755.
