Gerringong Committee

Established in 1959

In 1959 when Gerringong resident Dorothy Bailey contracted rubella while pregnant, her son was born with a congenital heart problem which led her to meeting CMRI’s founder Sir Lorimer Dods. When he asked her to return home and fundraise to establish a new research facility, dedicated to the welfare of children, she became passionate about the cause and that spirit still lives on today.

In 2019, during their 60th year, the Gerringong Committee was nominated for a Kiama Council’s Australia Day Community Group of the Year and were announced as winners at a ceremony at Gerringong Town Hall.

Gerringong Committee former secretary Lorraine Peade said they were so excited to win.

All of us are so happy to receive the award. It places a real focus on our history, the fact that it’s our 60th, and allows us to keep that message out in the community so they understand our main driving force is raising money for research.

Gerringong Committee secretary, Lorraine Peade

Over 60 years the Gerringong Committee has raised more than $2m and still has 80 members including several life members. There are even second-generation members.

Mrs Peade said over the years, there were more and more calls on the public purse for fundraising money but they were fortunate to work with other community groups for the greater good.

“When we are out selling raffle tickets we see that everyone has a story,’’ she said. “Everyone talks to us about a child with an illness. They have a sad or a happy story so we always strike a chord with people. It’s wonderful to now have this recognition.’’

They hold events ranging from a Mother’s Day High Tea to Jeans for Genes Trivia Night, Melbourne Cup Luncheon and huge Quilt and Craft Show.

On 7th June 2022, Mr Gareth Ward, MP Member far Kiama Parliament of New South Wales, posted a Community Recognition Statement for the Committee stating:

Today the Parliament of NSW acknowledges the Children's Medical Research Institute -Gerringong Committee.
They recently hosted a Mother's Day event and Fashion Parade to raise funds for
research conducted at the Children's Medical Research Institute laboratories which is central to their cause....

In 2019, during their 60th year, the Gerringong Committee was nominated for a Kiama Council's Australia Day Community Group of the Year and were announced as winners at a ceremony at Gerringong Town Hall. I acknowledge and thank the Gerringong Committee President Rosalie Cronin and Secretary Lorraine Peade. l also thank the many small businesses and organisations in Gerringong who helped by generously donating many items.