The appeal has so far raised around $4000 for people affected by the recent flood in Forbes.

Bathurst Regional Council kicked off the appeal with a $3000 donation, but things have been quiet lately, largely due to the city’s focus on the Bathurst 1000.

“It has been a bit slow. I’ve run a barbecue at Bunnings over the weekend and we raised about $500 and we’ve had a few small donations,” Cr Bourke said.

The former Clancy Motors site on Howick Street has been used as a head of operations for the appeal and it is starting to fill with donated items.

“I’ve got some good quality items down here. I’ve got some camping gear, a couple of dining sets, a fridge-freezer and a canoe,” Cr Bourke said.

Other items include several televisions, a writing desk, artwork and a mirror.

At this stage, Cr Bourke is looking to hold an auction of the donated items on Saturday, October 29.

However, before that can happen he will need people to take a look at home for any good quality items they can donate.

Cr Bourke encourages furniture, electronics, sporting equipment and white goods, but said to avoid bulky items like beds and wardrobes.

People can drop of their items to the former Clancy Motors building between 9am and 4pm daily, or can contact Cr Bourke to arrange a time to pick items up.

“I’ve got Bob Triming down there [manning the building] and he is doing a great job,” Cr Bourke said.

“We try to have it manned all the time.”

Cr Bourke has headed disaster appeals in Bathurst before to help out other communities and he hopes to raise a similar amount for Forbes, ideally $20,000 or more.

“Out that way a lot of people are uninsured or under insured,” he said.

“I’ve spoken to a lot of people out there and they said it can be $10,000 a year and it is just getting tough.

“It is good that we can get in there and give a hand.”

Further inquiries about the appeal can be directed to Cr Bourke by phoning 0416 207 370.