By Natasha Fujimoto
PAUL Archer is a humble, local philanthropist who spends hours each week collecting batteries in the Goulburn Valley and beyond, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for the children’s ward at GV Health and Give Me 5 For Kids.
In his tireless and tremendous work over the years, Paul, known as the ‘Battery Man’, has contributed around $15,000 of his own money in his venture to raise money for charities but has long required a larger vehicle to cart batteries and to cut down on substantial costs.
“I’m limited with the ute, in a truck I could collect more scrap without having to make several trips. When I go out on the road, I’ll go to somewhere like Finley and collect two tonne and then need to come back to collect what’s left. A new truck would save time, money and fuel.”
To date, Paul has raised $7,000 for a new truck as donations have trickled in from generous individuals, businesses and community groups via his GoFundMe page and from walk-in donations to his Natrad Shepparton store.
In much deserved recognition of his incredible work over twenty years of giving, the Kiwanis Club of Shepparton Sunrisers proudly presented Paul recently with a $3,000 cheque enabling him to finally purchase his long-coveted truck.
Long time Kiwanis member, Jill Meyers said Paul was perceptively moved in receiving the final instalment for his much-needed vehicle, and the club was delighted to be able to recognize both Paul and his charities in this way.
“It’s all about the kids, for Paul,” Jill said before adding, “And that is Kiwanis primary mission too- in all our fundraising- it is in serving the children.”
