Appeals manager Bruce Davis and his wife, appeals co-ordinator Sandy Davis, expect to hit the $1 million fundraising mark in the next two weeks.
The couple have been organising both the annual Poppy and Anzac Appeals for the past 11 years.
Since organising the appeals, they have led a team that has raised $992,000 from the two appeals for Australian Defence Force veterans and their families who are doing it tough.
All the money raised from the appeals goes to helping veterans with things such as emergency accommodation, medical equipment, gardening, haircuts, and helping with school fees and equipment for children of veterans.
This money was raised from the Shepparton, Mooroopna, Kialla and Tallygaroopna communities.
This year’s Poppy Appeal will see badges available, ranging in price from $50 down to $2, including a new $5 one that depicts a spray of poppies, which Mr Davis said he expected to be popular.
Pens, key rings, bag tags and wristbands will also be available to purchase.
Mr Davis was confident the Shepparton-based fundraising team would reach its $1 million target this year.
He said while he and Mrs Davis had led the appeal, it was a team effort of volunteers who helped out every year.
“It’s one big team, and one big effort to get that sort of money,” he said.
He also paid tribute to all the locals who bought badges and other items from the appeals each year.
“Thanks to the people of Shepparton who donate,” he said.
“They should be so proud.
“We said when we started we hoped to hit the $1 million mark and that’s come true.”
Mr Davis appreciated the generosity of people who donated each year.
“We realise people are on a budget and times are tough,” he said.
“They donate because of history and the sacrifices people make in theatres of war, as well as in situations such as floods and fires.
“It takes a certain person to volunteer their life in the Australian Defence Force.
“They should never be forgotten.”
Stalls selling Remembrance Day Poppy Appeal merchandise can be found at Bunnings, IGA, Shepparton Marketplace, Riverside Plaza, Shepparton and Mooroopna Woolworths and Aldi.
Appeal donation boxes are also available in smaller stores throughout the region.
The appeal started on Monday, October 27, and badges and merchandise will be sold until November 10, and will also be available at the Shepparton cenotaph before the Remembrance Day service on November 11.
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