Campfire Cooking for a Cause How "Round The Campfire" Raised Over $15000 for the Black Dog Institute

Gathering around a campfire has always been about more than just cooking food for us. It’s about connection, family time, and sharing experiences with family and friends. Recently we hosted, the "Round The Campfire For The Black Dog" event at Cape Palmerston Holiday Park, where we brought these elements together in a powerful way. This fundraiser not only celebrated the joy of campfire cooking but also raised over $15,000 for the Black Dog Institute, an organisation dedicated to mental health research and support. A cause very close to our heart.

This is us! Rolly, Mandy and our 3 boys Drew, Lachlan and Jaxson.

Bringing People Together Through Food and Fire

The event was designed to bring like minded people together who share a passion for camping, campfire cooking, while supporting a meaningful cause. Over the weekend, 150 attendees enjoyed a menu cooked by Rolly over an open fire, creating an atmosphere that was both warm and inviting. The food was a highlight, featuring:

• Tender pork ribs

• Juicy steaks cooked straight on the coals

• Crispy chicken wings

• Pulled pork tacos

• Fresh coleslaw

• Fried rice with a variety of dipping sauces

  
  

The final result!

Cooking over a live fire added a rustic charm and authenticity that resonated with the crowd. The "Aussie campfire Kitchens" Big Fire Pit was a sight to behold with 5 different kinds of meat either hanging from it or cooking on the grill. The aroma of smoky meats and spices filled the air, drawing people closer and sparking conversations. Especially when Rolly dropped the steaks stright onto the coals to cook. We call them "dirty steaks" This certainly got the people's attention!

The pork ribs were hung over the fire and then finished in the camp oven with a sticky bbq sauce.

Raising Funds with Fun and Community Spirit

Fundraising was a key part of the event, and we aimed to make it engaging and fun. The multi-draw raffle raised an impressive $7,000 alone. The raffle prizes encouraged participation and added excitement throughout the weekend. Thanks to local businesses and attendees for the prize donations.

The event’s total fundraising amount reached an asounding $15,416, a significant contribution to the Black Dog Institute. This blew us away as we had an original goal of raising $5000 when we were in the early planning stages. Safe to say we blew it out of the park! We definately didn't achieve this on our own. We had an army of helpers that made the weekend run smoothly. We are forever greatful for our tribe of friends that step up and support us in our goals! You all know who you are. We cannot thank you enough.

Amanda and Ben, the owners of the Cape Palmerston Holiday Park were amazing to deal with and made the planning process smooth and fuss free.

The money raised will support vital mental health research and programs aimed at preventing suicide and improving wellbeing.

Entertainment and Shared Experiences

The weekend was not just about food and fundraising. A live band , "Pure Vintage" donated their time, providing entertainment, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere. Music around the campfire helped build connections among attendees, many of whom were meeting for the first time. Some even got up for a dance.

Pure Vintage.

On Sunday night, the event screened the NRL grand final on a big screen. Watching the Broncos win over the Storm brought a wave of excitement and celebration. To keep everyone fueled, Rolly hung whole rumps over the fire and roast gravy rolls were served, the perfect accompaniment to the Broncos victory! It's safe to say that Rolly was very happy and celebrations continued on into the night.

Why This Event Matters

Mental health affects many people, and the Black Dog Institute plays a crucial role in addressing these challenges. We want events like "Round The Campfire For The Black Dog" to do more than raise funds—we want to build awareness and foster community support. We want those doing it tough to know they are not alone and its ok to not be ok. Reach out and chat to a friend or seek out The Black Dog Institute.

By combining a love for camping and campfire cooking with a cause that touches many lives, including ours personally, the event was a space where people could connect deeply while making a difference.

How You Can Get Involved

If you missed this event and enjoy camping, meeting like minded people and eating food cooked over an open fire, while supporting mental health causes, we will be back bigger and better, hosting it again in 2026!

Cape Palmerston Holiday Park on the October long weekend!

Events like this show how combining passion with purpose can create memorable experiences and meaningful impact. Hope to see you there!

Keep an eye on our socials for the event page closer to the date.