Canteen and clubhouse to get an upgrade with fundraiser money

The clubs are sharing the money generated by a sports lunch which featured tennis legend Pat Rafter along with Australian cricket royalty in Greg Chappell and Jeff Thomson.

South Lismore Bowling Club board member Dave Knight thanked all involved and said they will use the funds to buy some green maintenance equipment lost in the February 28 flood and would re-sheet the walls of the clubhouse.

Lismore Rugby Union club president Peter Everingham has big plans to put the money to good use.

They will purchase a canteen on wheels (food truck) and a mobile bar so the items can be moved quickly when necessary.

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The items could also be used by other community groups for fundraising too

"The event was an outstanding success from organisers perspective with the Lismore Heights Sports Club hosting a sports lunch that generated $40,000 for equal distribution to both the Lismore Rugby Club and South Lismore Bowling Club , both hammered by the recent hectic flooding situation," event organiser John Bancroft said.

"About 168 people attended and opened their wallets for the cause on offer."

"An array of outstanding guest speakers from a list of Australian sports royalty entertained the crowd with MC Even Bancroft in charge."

Former Wallabies Toutai Kefu and Tom Bowman got the ball rolling at the start of the day while Southern Cross University alumni Justin Harrison made the group laugh with his routine. Harrison played rugby in Lismore before going on to play for Australia.

Famous Cricketing Brothers Greg and Trevor Chappell spoke candidly about cricket in the 1980s and 1990s.

"Jeff Thomson provided a hilarious overview of touring England , meeting the queen and defecting from New South Wales to Queensland."

"Finally Pat Rafter once again proved what a nice fella he is , whilst also giving an insight into the mindset of a few current tennis characters.

The proceeds from the day netted $39,447 with Outback Catering ( Brian McConnell ) tipping in a bit more to make it a neat $40,000.

"Evan Bancroft was instrumental in sourcing the great array of speakers , Jeremy Bates from Lismore Heights Sports Club went above and beyond the call of duty and Outback catering owner Brian McConnell was instrumental in ensuring the days success."