Staff, students and families decked out the Mother Scholastica Building at the school for the occasion, with more than 80 people attending on the night. 

Rotary Club of Cowra President, Bill Murphy, said the fundraiser was a continuation of a partnership between St Raphael’s and the Club. 

“It started with an approach to Cowra Rotary by (St Raphael’s Assistant Principal) Andrew Casey to establish a partnership between the school and Rotary for our mutual benefit,” he said. 

“St Raphael’s has a group of 18 students going on an Immersion Program to Alice Springs in September and they will spend their time in a remote Aboriginal community.

“Cowra Rotary committed to sponsor each student up to $500 and so the total cost to us was $9000, which we paid $5000 already and we have to find another $4000 by September. 

“That commitment is the main reason we are here tonight.”

The highlight of the evening was a speech by special guest speaker, rugby league legend Tommy Raudonikis. 

Tommy told the audience about his upbringing, including how his parents immigrated from Europe after WWII and his early years in Cowra playing footy and attending St Raphael’s. 

“When we drove into the town yesterday, I had tears in my eyes because this is where it all started,” he said. 

“They were good times, and I can’t thank Cowra enough for them.”

He then spoke about his footy career and later life, from becoming the first captain of the NSW Blues and his days playing for the Western Suburbs Magpies and to his more recent battles with cancer. 

“I didn’t have all the ability but I did have the determination and Cowra played a big part in that,” he said. 

“I’d like to thank the Rotary Club and St Raphael’s School… for inviting me down here to speak here tonight. 

“I just love the joint, I’ve got some wonderful friends.”

Mr Murphy thanked everyone involved who helped to put on the night, including Christine Murphy, Father Laurie, Peta Bischoff, Andrew Casey and Bob Griffiths.