From fireworks to bets for shaving beards, the Yass Valley community - it’s friends and families - raised in excess of $8000 in under 48 hours.

Over 700 people travelled the arduous journey out to Wee Jasper on Saturday night to take part in a bonfire and fireworks spectacular. 

As the sun dropped away from the gullies of Wee Jasper, Yass Can Assist hit the ground selling glow sticks, kindly donated by Luff Motors, raising over $700.   

Supporting both the Cancer Council and Can Assist, organisers Michelle and Michael Waters, alongside their family, have so far tallied $3000 from the night. 

Meanwhile, 50km away and 12 hours later, over 200 people came out to bask in the sun at Riverbank Park on Sunday morning. 

Music and laughter could be heard from miles away when John Goode celebrated his 80th birthday with all proceeds going to the Leukaemia Foundation.

John and his mate, Richard Maxwell, took to the clippers and with the crowd cheering them on, lobbed the locks that would contribute to the $4,500 - and counting - raised for the cause close to their hearts. 

Despite the weekend's bankroll, the momentum doesn’t seem to be slowing down this week, with two Biggest Morning Tea events set to add coin to the purse.

Mayfield Mews will hold their fundraiser from 10am on Wednesday and Yass Valley Council will follow at 10am on Friday at the Yass Memorial Hall. Westpac has also donated $500 to Can Assist this week and Warmington Lodge raised more than $1600 for the Cancer Council. 

While some would say the weekend’s rewards came down to the fact that most people have been touched by cancer in one way or another, others might argue it’s the amazing organiser efforts driving the support. Perhaps it is the tireless volunteers of these organisations or a combination of all three. 

Whatever the reason, this author is certain that in charity, the Yass Valley shines bright.