LOCALS have made generous donations that will enable 100 blind people in India to have their sight restored through the Eyes for India project.
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The donations were made at The Bay Banquet, an evening of food and entertainment hosted by The Bay Church, in Bonnells Bay, to support the work of Eyes for India Oceania.
The event was sold out, and a highlight was the inspirational address by two-time para-triathlon World Cup event winner, Lauren Parker, of Newcastle.
Eyes for India organiser in Australia, Robert Kalaf, of Brightwaters, said the audience was inspired by Parker's story of resilience.
"Lauren's attitude 'if they can live with what they've got, I can live with what I've got', is a way of reaching out to people," he said.
Her approach was a reflection of Christian living, he said.
"That is, we strive to help others in need - and that is the heartbeat of Eyes for India Oceania."
Lake Macquarie MP Greg Piper was among the attendees.
Mr Kalaf said he was grateful for the "positivity that Mr Piper brought to the table, encouraging and empowering us all" after Parker's talk.
The function was simply a good night out, and an uplifting experience for those in the room, Mr Kalaf said.
"The friendly, happy atmosphere was fantastic. The incredible food was a bonus!" he said.
Eyes for India is a not-for-profit organisation that provides treatment and restores sight to people living in India who have operable cataracts but cannot afford to have them treated, or cannot access medical treatment locally.
Visit eyesforindia.org.au.
