Dance and be merry, in the name of Dolly’s Dream
A GALA ball aimed at spreading kindness and reducing the stigma of mental illness will also raise money for Dolly’s Dream to help create positive change in the lives of young people.
Dolly’s Dream is a charity established by family and friends of Dolly Everett, a 14-year-old Northern Territory girl who took her own life after being bullied online.
“The ball is about spreading kindness,” committee member Katie Garbutt said. “There’s so much bullying and people tearing others down in today’s world, so we want a night to build up the community and bring back some positivity.”
A Roma local and family friend of the Everett family, Tracey O’Brien, was inspired to run the Dancing Under the Stars Black Tie Ball to provide support, fundraising and promotion to the anti-bullying campaign.
Last year’s inaugural ball raised more than $17,000 for Dolly’s Dream.
“The support from local businesses has been fantastic this year and we’re so grateful to Enzed for being our gold sponsor, as well as Roma Tyre Barn, Santos, Rayham Engineering, Haymans Electrical, Banks Bolts & Fasteners and Radiance Beauty,” Mrs Garbett said.
This year, guests will enjoy live entertainment by talented singer Chev Wilson and special guest speakers Dan and Ed from Trade-Mutt.
“They’ll be speaking about their personal journeys with mental illness and breaking down the stigma of mental health, specifically around men,” Mrs Garbett said.
“They’ll be wearing Hawaiian shirts to bring some colour to the night and encourage all the men attending to wear one under their tuxedos in support too.”
Tickets are $80 from Anglicare or online at www.trybooking.com.
Where: Roma Cultural Centre.
When: Saturday, July 13, from 6pm.
FROCK UP: Natalie Repetto, Sarah Clear, Margaret Lyons and Kimberley Collett at last year’s Dancing Under the Stars ball.