A small town in western Victoria recently witnessed a unique fundraising event at The National Hotel, where 10-year-old Brock Mewett showcased his toy train collection to support the Royal Children's Hospital (RCH) in Melbourne. On a typical Friday afternoon, the pub is a gathering spot for locals winding down after the workweek. However, this particular Friday was different as Brock took over the venue with his impressive collection of 235 toy trains.

Brock's passion for trains began when he received a Thomas the Tank Engine set for his first birthday. After attending various train shows, he decided to host his own exhibition at the local pub. "I had the stuff pretty much and I asked the pub, and they let me," he said.

The town of Natimuk, with a population of 548, is known for its climbing spots at Dyurrite/Mt Arapiles. Publican Bill Lovell described a typical Friday at the pub as chaotic but noted that the locals embraced Brock's exhibition. "They thought it was great and everyone that came in really enjoyed it," he said. Lovell was eager to support Brock's initiative, believing in encouraging children's creativity. "When they come up with some ideas, you think, well, you've got to encourage it because otherwise they just go, 'Oh well, we won't even try anything later on,'" he added.

The event attracted over 60 children and their parents, along with curious regulars. Brock's mother, Sally Mewett, shared how locals were impressed by the exhibition. "There were a couple of locals that normally go to the bar, come around, and regular Brad came in and he said, 'Oh wow, this is amazing,'" she recalled. Brock's favorite train is Edward from Thomas the Tank Engine, admired for his kind and caring nature.

To enter the exhibition, attendees were asked to make a gold coin donation, which resulted in a total of $810 raised for the hospital. "Some of it was to build enthusiasm and pretty much so we can raise some money and also so it will probably help out the Royal Children's Hospital themselves," Brock explained.

Ryan Brown, chief executive of the Royal Children's Hospital Foundation, expressed gratitude for Brock's efforts. "When we first learned about Brock's exhibition and his incredibly generous donation, we were delighted. Brock’s contribution will help ensure sick kids can receive the best possible health care, and we are immensely proud to have his support," he said.

Sally Mewett noted that the community's response was heartwarming. "Seeing everyone's generosity for his initiative was simply overwhelming. Words can't express how grateful I am for everyone's support and well wishes," she said.

Lovell was surprised by the amount raised, initially expecting only a couple of hundred dollars. Looking ahead, Brock plans to make the exhibition an annual event. With less than half of his toy trains displayed this time, he is excited about future exhibitions and the potential to raise even more funds for the hospital.