Sorry to hear croc is not up to speed Glenny - bit of a low blow that one - but many hands make light work and sure all will do what they can to assist, even if unable to attend in person. The town hotel/motel could be exceedingly grateful to you for the increase in business around April
The idea of a fund raising raffle sounds workable - could we advertise that through the next ABPA magazine perhaps??? Could each active member of ABPA sell a couple of tickets??? For the prize/s perhaps a collection of donated books and CD's (wouldn't need many) to make up 3 prizes and would be sure that our poets who are able to would be happy to donate - and we have the CD that Bill put together of a few of us that I am sure could be used.
The monies raised could be put to use paying for an end loader, or a ditch digger or whatever equipment or whatever else you might
need at that particular moment to simplify things up there for you and croc.
Happy to help as and where I can Glenny but doubt I will make it up there physically

although never say never
Blessings to you and croc - stay strong mate
Cheers
Maureen