John Heath shot his estranged partner Renee Martin before turning the gun on himself at their Urana property on December 22.

The Urana community has launched an appeal, culminating in a charity ball in April, to support their children, Jessica, 13, Jeremy, 12, and Jamie, 7.

Sergeant Grant Churchin, from Mulwala police, is part of the organising committee that includes Blue Light branches in both towns.

“There were a few groups in town trying to do different things and we wanted to pull everyone together to ensure a successful function,” Sgt Churchin said.

Organisers are now searching for “desirable items” to be auctioned on the night.

Sgt Churchin said all goods would be appreciated but accommodation packages, farming equipment, boating and fishing equipment and sporting memorabilia would be particularly popular at auction.

“Any assistance people can give will be greatly appreciated,” he said.

Two of the couple’s children, Jessica and Jeremy, started at St Paul’s College Walla Walla this year.

The youngest, Jamie, attends St Francis Xavier Primary School at Urana and lives with his grandparents, Kevin and Jeanette Martin.

“The young fellow is only seven so we’re hoping to get enough money to put him through school,” Sgt Churchin said.

The NSW Police Citizens Youth Clubs will match dollar for dollar the amount raised up to $10,000.

“I believe we’ll easily match the $10,000 that they’ve offered,” Sgt Churchin said.

“I’m hoping for between $20,000 and $40,000, I’d be disappointed if we don’t get that.”

Donations of alcohol from licensed premises are also being sought, to be sold at the ball.

Sgt Churchin can be contacted at chur1gra@police.nsw.gov.au or (03) 5743 8099.