Transport and logistics specialist insurer NTI has raised a new fundraising record for itself through the sale of its newly-restored 1946 Jailbar truck, while also helping raise funds for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) research.
The classic truck, dubbed “Jolene”, raised $235,000 from more than 27,000 raffle ticket sales. NTI has committed an additional sum to take the total funds raised from the initiative to $335,000. Every dollar raised will go directly to MND research to help find a cure or effective treatment for the debilitating disease.
NTI’s CEO Tony Clark said the company was thrilled with the new record set by “Jolene”, the third Jailbar and fourth truck to be restored by NTI.
“Elizabeth Fritsch from Aldavilla, New South Wales, was announced as the lucky winner and new owner of “Jolene”. She was shocked and excited when I rang her from the Brisbane Truck Show with the news of her win,” Clark said.
“It’s a wonderful result. She’d bought two tickets via Facebook, which goes to prove if you’re in it, you’re a
chance of winning. We had the pleasure of meeting Elizabeth and her family to congratulate her and hand over the keys in person. Seeing the sheer joy on their faces was priceless,” he said.
The funds from “Jolene” is on top of $534,000 already donated by NTI in the past five years to MND and Me and MND Research Australia to fund NTI’s official research grant.
NTI supports research into MND as a legacy to late CEO Wayne Patterson, who was diagnosed in 2015 and later lost his battle.
His widow Lisa drew the winning ticket at an official ceremony at the Brisbane Truck Show, held at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre.
“It’s vital we find a cure, as every day in Australia two people die from MND,” Clark said.
Two people a day are also diagnosed with the disease, while more than 2,100 Australians live with MND, which can affect adults of any age.
“’Jolene’” is a work of art. She’s not just a truck and the result is a team effort. The commitment NTI’s people have shown to fundraising for MND research is humbling.” Clark said.