A simple act by Marcus and Cass Hooke to return the support they received while their son Jack was going through his childhood cancer journey,

turned into a sell-out charity event which raised $73,000 for Country Hope.

Cass and Marcus Hooke with their children, Sybil and Jack pictured at their garden event. Images: Margie McClelland

Appropriately named Outback Gardens, the event last Saturday drew garden enthusiasts from throughout New South Wales and Victoria for a day of learning, sharing and inspiration in Cass’ beautiful country garden on the Hay Plains.

Cass mostly single-handedly orchestrated the entire event, from planning and securing speakers and sponsors and organising a massive raffle which resulted in 4873 tickets sold, to turning their woolshed into an event centre which oozed style and country hospitality.

Country Hope Fundraising and Events Coordinator, Simon Barton with Cass Hooke.

The day was hosted by Chloe Thomson from Bean There Dug That. Guest speakers included Ashley James (Ashley James Gardens), Karen Daniel (Wren's flower farm & Wren's florista), Keith Edwards (KE Landscape Consultant), Sarah Curray (Majors Mulch), Joel Barnett (InStyle Gardens) and former Hay local, Colleen Southwell (The Garden Curator). This was followed by a selection of workshops to attend and a variety of gardening stalls.

Also attending was Country Hope Fundraising and Events Coordinator, Simon Barton who spoke emotionally about his role which enables emotional and financial support to country families who have a child diagnosed with cancer or other life-threatening illnesses.

In thanking everyone for their support and donations to help families get through incredibly challenging times, Cass Hooke also shared their personal journey when young Jack was diagnosed with childhood cancer.

“This is beyond all I had ever hoped to achieve to pay forward the pure kindness my family has received,” she said.

Country Hope is Riverina-based and supports families throughout Wagga Wagga, Albury/Wodonga, Griffith, Hay, Dubbo and surrounding areas.

The day concluded with a stroll around Cass Hooke's private garden.