Tears, hugs for Menique Richards

FEBRUARY 26, 2013 4:55am

A fundraiser held for Menique Richards, who died of cancer, leaving her two sets of twins without their mum raised $25,000.

By Kaitlin Thals

A small community rallied at the weekend and raised $25000 for a family sadly left behind.

Kialla’s Menique Richards, 29, tragically died on February 6 after an aggressive from of cancer took over her body.

She leaves behind her children, four-year-old twins Brodie and Tyren Trevaskis, and three-month-old twins Shylah and Mitchell Melverton.

Her loving family and friends, partner Andrew Melverton, and father of Brodie and Tyren, Tim Trevaskis, say they will also miss her dearly.

About 300 people attended the auction night hosted by Girgarre Cricket Club in aid of the family.

Andrew’s cousin Tim Brennan said he and a club committee began organising the event last year, when Menique was first diagnosed with cancer.

After she passed away, the cause became more urgent.

‘‘We were overwhelmed on the night, and there were a few teary moments,’’ Mr Brennan said.

‘‘Once it was over and done with and the lights were off, it was relief, there were high fives and hugs and kisses.

‘‘That’s just what it’s like at Girgarre when someone is down.

‘‘Being a very small community town, lots of players come from Ky (Kyabram), this is what we do to keep these clubs alive. Everyone pulled together to make it a really good night.’’

The highest bid on items during the auction was a double-door fridge sold for $1800 and a Nick Riewoldt-signed AFL guernsey, which sold for $850.

‘‘Andrew tried to say a few thanks on the night, but he didn’t know where to start, he was just speechless from all of the support,’’ Mr Brennan said.

Menique’s mother Vicki said she and the family were extremely thankful for the support.

‘‘It was a wonderful turnout and they raised lots of money, we’re really happy,’’ she said.

Vicki said Menique would be remembered as a helpful, adventurous and bubbly woman who brought delight, laughter and prettiness to her whole family.

Monetary donations can still be made into the M&M Fundraiser trust account at Bendigo Bank (BSB number 633000; account number 147860993).

People can still contribute to the family trust by donating directly to ‘‘Menique’s children trust fund’’. ANZ Bank, BSB: 013805, account number: 3825-05871. Donations can be made online or at your local ANZ Bank.