Sofia to support foundation

Wimmera entertainer Sofia Laursen Habel will perform in Horsham early next month to raise money for Wimmera Health Care Group.

Laursen Habel, who grew up on a farm at Boolite, said she was thrilled to perform for a Friend’s of the Foundation ‘Soiree of Music’ event on September 12 at Horsham’s Church of Christ.

The classical-trained singer will perform original and cover opera songs, accompanied by pianist Margaret Flemming.

Money raised through donations will go towards Wimmera Heath Care Group Foundation, to fund special projects at the health service’s Horsham and Dimboola campuses.

The foundation has committed $425,000 over four years towards Wimmera Cancer Centre at Wimmera Base Hospital, with every donation going towards ‘Growing Better Health’ in the region.

Laursen Habel performed at the first Friends of the Foundation fundraiser in 2019 and is keen to return to the stage.

Having finished her honours degree in classical voice with first-class honours at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, Laursen Habel has now moved home to perform in the Wimmera and to be involved with the arts scene.

She has nine years’ experience in a variety of ensembles, musicals and as a soloist. It is her dream to become a professional opera singer and performer.

She has performed as Yumyum in The Mikado by Gilbert and Sullivan and took on the role of Germano from La Scala di Seta by Rossini.

During COVID-19 lockdowns last year and this year, Laursen Habel continued producing music, co-writing two operas, ‘Repudiating Oran’ and ‘Kamalarella’.

Tickets for the event, including a high tea, are $35 and can be purchased at Des Lardner Organics in Firebrace Street, Horsham, Pink Nade Boutique, 96 Scott Street, Warracknabeal, or Horsham Plaza management office.