A CANE toad race on Russell Island has helped to buy much-needed equipment for the local rural fire brigade and provide breakfast for primary school students.
The race was part of the Russell Island Sports Fishing Club's Australia Day event, held at Sandy Beach. Residents also enjoyed classic Aussie events like thong throwing, as well as food and a raffle.
Club captain Norm Kenny said the cane toad race had been the day's main fundraiser.
"We held (the race) as a fundraising event for the (funds) to be donated to our community," he said.
Russell Island State School and the island's rural fire brigade each got a share in the $600 raised.
A school P&C member said the cost of getting resources to the islands was one of the constraints of island life.
"Although there are food banks on the mainland helping other schools with their breakfast clubs, we ... rely quite heavily on our locals," a spokesperson said.
The money would be used to help provide breakfast for students who needed it.
"I am so proud to be part of a local community that reaches out to all and shows such leadership in how we can all help each other," the spokesperson said.
Half the funds raised also went towards a new thermal imaging camera for the local rural fire brigade.
Mr Kenny said the event had been a resounding success.
"Thank you to the volunteers who helped and the community that made the auction so successful," he said.
