THE Big Day Off is going national this year after a successful pilot run to raise money for people with spinal injuries.
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Inspired by 20-year-old Border footballer James McQuillan, the fundraiser involves businesses holding a raffle for their staff to win a day off work.
Mr McQuillan became a quadriplegic after a sporting accident in 2014 playing for Albury Tigers, who went on to win the premiership that year.
BDO chairman Jon Retford said when Mr McQuillan was injured, the call to action was immediate.
“The football club soon realised it was much bigger than just a club issue – it was a community issue,” he said.
Mr Retford began selling raffle tickets for a car at Albury Racing Club to raise money for Mr McQuillan. But seven people in wheelchairs passed him at the races that day.
“There’s no way I could’ve asked them to buy a ticket for James,” he said. “This is why the Big Day Off has to extend out. There are so many people out there that need help.”
Depending on their size, each business nominates a number of days off available for their staff. Once signed up, staff can purchase as many tickets as they like to win an additional paid day of annual leave.
Mr McQuillan called on employees to hassle their bosses to sign up.
“Because if you get your boss on board, you get the opportunity to win the day off and help people walk again,” he said.
This year, BDO is aiming to raise over $1 million through signing up more than 5000 businesses.
“It’s an optimistic target, but that’s OK,” Mr Retford said.
Mr McQuillan said proceeds would be donated to Spinal Cord Injuries Australia and SpinalCure Australia.
“It’s fantastic to be involved in such a thing, because it not only helps people in the interim but also helps finding a cure, which we all hope is not too far away,” he said.
To register visit www.bigdayoff.org. Tickets can be purchased up until June 30, when the draw will take place. Winners will be announced July 1.