Darren in the driver's seat

Businessman Darren Lee was the toast of the Catholic Centre last night when his raffle ticket was drawn to win a new Toyota Rav4.

Mr Lee was not there when his name was called, but was excited when told the news by Geraldton Toyota dealer principal Rob Houwen.

“He was very excited, as anyone would be,” said Mr Houwen, whose dealership donated the car.

“And it was good to see the car go to someone who had already donated so much back to the church.”

The draw was made at an Italian night to help raise funds for the St Francis Xavier Cathedral restoration project.

More than $10,000 was raised as 150 people were treated to an evening of Italian hospitality, food and music.

Campaign co-ordinator Gerry Eastman and Eastman said the Italian community had been an important and integral part of the Catholic community of Geraldton for more than 100 years so the theme was perfect for the fundraiser.

So far $2.2 million has been raised for the restoration and conservation of the iconic cathedral.

Full story in tomorrow's print edition.