OFFERINGS to the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre in memory of Tim Fischer have reached $13,000.
There was an influx of contributions at the former deputy prime minister's funeral at the Albury Entertainment Centre last Thursday.
Among the donors was Akubra Hats, the company that makes the headwear which adorned Mr Fischer's coffin and was a trademark of the past Nationals leader.
Cancer centre trust board member John Watson said the support of mourners was beyond expectations.
"The generosity of the community in lieu of flowers for Tim at the funeral we weren't expecting," he said.
It shows even after his death Tim is working hard for our community
- John Watson, cancer centre trust board member
"We just hoped people would donate and it shows even after his death Tim is working hard for our community."
Mr Watson said nothing had been earmarked as the recipient of the funds.
There are four possible uses - medical equipment, staff training or scholarships, cancer research or the wellness centre at the Borella Road site.
Mr Watson said Mr Fischer's widow Judy Brewer was likely to be consulted on how the money would be distributed.
Cancer centre trust fund manager Kristy McMahon was also thankful for the gifts.
The donations coincide with the start of a program, Cancer Pals, designed to attract spruikers for the centre from across its 200-kilometre catchment area.
"We would like people with good networks in their town who could be a go-to person for fundraising," Mrs McMahon said.
"They can provide forms to people and tell them about what our interests are here at the cancer centre because people don't realise the research work we do here is national and international research."
Cancer Pals, whose rollout has been supported with a $50,000 grant from the Collier Charitable Fund, has been operating informally.
Henty resident Kevin Fogarty was appointed as a volunteer advocate in 2017 with his late wife Nadine having been treated for ovarian cancer in Albury.
"While it's not a huge amount that I raise, it's $100 every now and then and every little bit helps make a difference," he said.
Those interested in being a community advocate can find more details online or phone Mrs McMahon on (02) 6064 1538.
A launch, which will involve a workshop, will be held on Saturday September 14 from 10am to 2pm at the cancer centre.
Mrs McMahon is hoping for a minimum of 20 activists to emerge.
