For the past 16 or so years the family has generously donated their property for local organisations to hold a fundraising event.

This year Dungog Public School is the successful beneficiary of the family’s generosity.

“Sally (Tickle) asked me earlier in the year and then sent me an official letter,” said Keith, who is better known to all as Bluey.

“Not being one for paperwork it was a done deal when she asked me.

“We’ve got to have it for someone so it may as well be the school.

“I’ve got grandkids coming on and I want to make sure they all have a good education.”

The money will go towards interactive smartboards, data projectors and associated software for the school.

School principal Steven Richard said the smartboards cost $8000 each.

“We’ve got four already and a few more coming, but by the end of next year I would like to have one in every classroom.

“This is a very generous gesture by Bluey and the children have been practising their singing and dancing for their performances on the night.”

Fundraising committee coordinator Sally Tickle said great night is being planned.

“The fun will start at 6.30pm with a calcutta and band Country Mix playing,” Mrs Tickle said.

“From 8-8.30pm the children will perform dance and singing items before Santa arrives at 8.30pm.

“The night will continue with the band playing, auction and the lucky door prizes and Christmas raffle drawn.”

Raffle prizes include an 81cm LCD television, handmade quilt made and donated by the staff of Dungog Public School, Shirley Bradford and Creative Crafts and Fabrics; DVD player donated by the Hitchens family and a handmade quilted cushion made and donated by Lorraine Walker.

There will be something for everyone to bid on in the auction conducted by Paddy Dillon.

Included will be handcrafted wooden bar by David Leake, tool box, side of beef, Jan Watkins’ famous Christmas puddings, limited release of Bluey’s T-shirt (6 only), painting by local artist Leanne Atkins, handmade wooden picnic table, RM Williams bomber jacket and hat and lots more.

The barbecue and bar will be operated by Dungog Lions and Apex with proceeds to go to local charities.