Ms McDonald was one of several locals to take part in PCYC Morisset's annual Time4Kids fundraiser.

That's where the PCYC erects a pretend lock-up in Morisset Square and locals spend time behind bars trying to raise "bail" from the donations of passers-by.

Once a detainee achieves their bail target, they earn their freedom.

PCYC Morisset manager Rosmairi Dawson said Ms McDonald was well supported by students who were happy to make donations.

"The problem for Cheri was the students were making donations to keep her in the cell," Ms Dawson smiled.

But it was all in good fun, and Ms McDonald proved there were no hard feelings.

"Cheri has very generously offered to have us set up at Morisset High School to lock up some teachers and raise some money," Ms Dawson said.

Senior Constables Ha Son and Michael Kennedy were on hand to keep the detainees in line.

This was the seventh time the Time4Kids event has been held in Morisset, and this year $1,384 was raised for the PCYC.

"Each year the money goes directly to the club to buy equipment, train staff, and put on programs," Ms Dawson said.

"This year, we're planning to buy some gymnastics equipment and some basketballs and soccer balls."

Among the other locals to spend time behind bars for the PCYC on Friday were staff from Specsavers Morisset, Morisset Newsagency, and Bunnings.

Ms Dawson praised the detainees and passers-by for their generosity.

"The community is amazing," she said.

"And the good nature of our detainees really makes the day."

Time4Kids is a statewide initiative involving the community and the NSW Police Force youth command.

Across NSW it has so far raised $38,793.50 this year.

Ms Dawson said the money raised for PCYC Morisset was likely to increase once online donations and other donation buckets on shop counters were collected.

Locals join forces to help Taree bushfire victims

Restoration works begin on The Boulevarde after NBN rollout

New jetty at Wangi Wangi set to open in March | photos