Crowdfunding campaign raises nearly $50,000 for Trentham baker and family

The crowdfunding campaign, called 'Some bread for Thais and John', was started by friend Joseph Bromley to help Mr Reid, his partner Thais Sansom and their three sons following the diagnosis in February.

When he heard about Mr Reid's diagnosis, Mr Bromley said he set up an online GoFundMe campaign with the goal of raising $25,000.

The campaign raised more than $10,000 in the first 24 hours after it went live and had surpassed $49,000 on Tuesday morning with several donations worth $1000 or more.

Ms Sansom said the family was overwhelmed by the support from the community.

"John has undergone brain surgery and is recovering at home before starting further treatment to extend his life," she said.

"We were surprised by Joseph's fundraiser and overwhelmed by the community's response. Having the financial stress lifted means we can focus on spending precious time with family and friends and enjoy sharing happy memories, being in our garden and, of course, eating good food.

"The kind and caring messages people have sent give us emotional strength, which is beyond value. John and I want everyone to know that we feel loved and supported and we are incredibly grateful."

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Mr Reid founded the bakery with his brother Alan in 2005 to bake authentic sourdough and pastries in its historic woodfired oven.

The business experienced rapid growth and now employs more than 20 local staff and has several awards for sustainability, a National Baking Industry Award for Excellence and an RACV Tourism Award.

Ms Sansom said plans are in place to ensure the bakery remains in operation and staff retain their jobs.

"We greatly appreciate our community's support of RedBeard over the past 16 years. Every supporter and customer is helping to secure John's wonderful legacy," she said.

Mr Bromley said the communities of Mount Alexander Shire, Hepburn Shire and the Macedon Ranges had been rocked by the news of Mr Reid's illness.

"I started the fundraiser with the hope of covering some of Thais' lost income while she stops work to care for John with her family," he said.

"Thais and John have been immensely generous to our community over many years. I knew their friends and well-wishers would want to give back with some practical support at this difficult time. I'm delighted by the response, which smashed my goal and shows how beloved this family is."

The fundraiser can be found here.

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