Batemans Bay builder Tony Ferrante was part of the 20 strong teams, from across New South Wales, which raised the donations from the number of new homes that began construction last month.

Mr Ferrante said he was proud to have been part of the successful state-wide initiative, nicknamed the “Fab Slab” fund-raiser.

“The money raised by Fab Slab has enabled Variety to purchase equipment like a standing frame and a modified trampoline for kids with mobility issues, monitoring equipment for a child with epilepsy, and iPads to help kids and their families with communication challenges,” he said.

“It’s also enabled a number of kids to receive much-needed therapy as well.

“The work that Variety does in the community is absolutely vital for children who are sick, disadvantaged or have special needs, along with their families who also do it tough,” he said.

“Their work is inspiring and we’re very proud we could do our part to support their efforts.”

This is the third year that G.J. Gardner, as a group, have supported Variety - the Children’s Charity and over that time the network has raised more than $435,000 through various fund-raising efforts.

Chief among these activities is the G.J. Variety Freedom House fund-raiser that sees a brand new home auctioned off with all profits going to the charity.

CEO of Variety - the Children’s Charity NSW/ACT, David Sexton, thanked G.J. Gardner Homes for initiating the fund-raiser.

“Variety helps when others can’t,” Mr Sexton said.

“But we couldn’t do our work without the assistance of organisations like G.J. Gardner Homes and people like Mr Ferrante who support us so readily.”

Families and organisations can turn to Variety when government assistance isn’t available.

Variety provides support through grants for children and families for things like mobility equipment and wheelchairs, communication devices and education aides and medical items.