Dust off that suit or frock and join the party from home as one of the Hunter’s signature events struts its stuff online.
The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WRHS) has been forced to postpone its annual Hunter Rescue Ball, originally set for Friday 1 May, due to the Federal Government’s COVID-19 guidelines.
However, an online auction is offering supporters the chance to bid on more than 80 items in a variety of categories, such as homewares and fashion, electronics and experiences, accommodation and dining vouchers, as well as a helicopter flight for two and a three-course lunch in the Hunter Valley.
There is also the chance to win a Volkswagen Polo, valued at more than $24,000.
Tickets for the car raffle cost $10. It will remain open until Tuesday 18 August, with the prize drawn on Thursday 20 August.
Apart from the auction and raffle, participants are being encouraged to dress up in formal wear tomorrow night and share photos on social media along with the hashtag #FormalFriday. Prizes will be awarded for the best dressed male, female, couple, and ‘socially distant’ group.
The event will also allow people to watch a rescue story and hear an update from WRHS Chief Executive, Richard Jones.
Mr Jones said the service had been “humbled” by the community’s ongoing support for the Hunter Rescue Ball.
“It’s a signature event for both us and the community each year and we can’t do it [this year],” he said.
“People who have donated prizes are still happy to do it and, even though we had to offer people a refund for the ball, we gave them an opportunity to make a donation and plenty of people have chosen, or been able, to do that.
“It is [also] reminding people that we are still out there 24/7 so, if people can assist us in any way, then we’re humbled by that support.”
The online activation will start at 6.30pm and wraps up at 9pm. Bidding has already begun on auction items – visit the event page to join the action.
The next Hunter Rescue Ball is set to take place on Friday 7 May 2021.
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