FORMER politician and high-profile publican Wilson Tuckey kept the crowd entertained with his sharp mind and quick wit at the Old Ram Muster fundraising lunch at the Royal Agricultural Society of WA Claremont Showgrounds last Friday.
As he launched into his take on climate change, generational differences and other controversial topics, the former assistant to the Prime Minister and Foresty and Conservation, Local Government and Regional Services and Territories Minister reminded the audience he was the inaugural guest speaker at the first lunch 18 years ago and he was pretty happy to still be around for a return visit.
The Old Ram Muster committee has been organising the event to raise money for the Ability Centre, Coolbinia, which offers care and services for children and adults with disabilities, annually since 2007.
Ability Centre chief executive Jacquie Thomson acknowledged the ongoing generosity and said last year's donation of more than $18,000 had gone towards the purchase of an interactive magic carpet which lights up insync with a child's movement on it.
"It has been a great hit with our physios and OTs (occupational therapists) and we are very grateful for your ongoing support," Ms Thomson said.
This year 96 people, a few less than last year, sat down to lunch but thanks to increasing sponsorship more money, more than $20,000, was raised.
Like last year it included a $10,000 donation from the JP Stratton Trust.
Farm Weekly is also a sponsor.