The Tamworth Town Hall is set to sparkle on Saturday, August 3rd, as the PCYC gets ready to host its first Gala Ball fundraiser.
Sally Anne-Whitten and Sarah Byrnes, managers at the PCYC, say that attendees are in for an evening of glitz and glam with plenty of entertainment, food and games to suit everyone.
“Guests can look forward to a beautiful evening beginning with a welcome drink and a beautifully curated grazing board on arrival, followed by a delicious main meal and a sweet treat station to finish.” Whitten says.
Entertainment will include performances from local talent, including the Tamworth City Dance Academy and the James Craswell & Friends band.
There will also be appearances from guest speakers such as Mayor Russell Webb from the Tamworth Regional Council, the CEO of PCYC NSW Ben Hobby, and Youth Engagement Officer Aaron Turner.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the event will feature various snow-themed games, a grown-up version of a lucky dip and lots of auction items up for grabs. According to Sarah, a unique highlight will be a snowman-building contest.
“Each table will be challenged to create their own snowman, complete with hats and scarves.”
With Winter Wonderland as the theme, Sally and Sarah say they hope to see everyone in lots of long sparkling dresses and fluffy jackets.
“We know it’s hard to get out of your pyjamas in winter, so we’re hoping the theme will inspire everyone to dress up for the evening while still staying warm,” Whitten laughs.
“Warm and elegant! And lots and lots of glitter. The room will be very sparkly with all the decorations we’ve got, so it’ll look beautiful with everyone matching,” Byrnes added.
“Our sponsors New England Overnight have been very, very generous with the decorations. Think projectors, snowflakes, ice everywhere, it’ll be spectacular.”
The Gala Ball aims to support the organisation’s crucial work in empowering local youth. Funding from the event will go towards much-needed heating and cooling systems in the gymnasium and supporting the various youth programs offered by the PCYC, including “Fit for Life”, “Fit for Work” and “Fit for Change”.
“The PCYC’s mission is to empower youth – keeping them fit, keeping them active and giving them a safe place to be,” Whitten explains.
“Our priority is to engage with local youth, develop and foster positive relationships, break down barriers and give these kids all the skills they need for life.” Byrnes agreed.
Support for these youth programs is particularly important in regional areas like Tamworth. A recent report from mental health service ReachOut revealed that young people in rural areas are more likely to be impacted by mental ill health.
Whilst the fundraiser’s purpose is to support these vital youth programs and provide heating/cooling for the kids, Byrnes says they also are hoping for an opportunity to share more about the work the PCYC does.
“We’re just hoping for a great crowd to come along and learn a bit more about what they actually do here at the club. Just really get that word out into the community.”
Despite being a well-known name in the community, the important work done by the PCYC often goes unrecognised.
“I had no idea before I started here either. Even my dad still calls it the Police Boys Club, because that’s what it was for so many years,” Whitten said.
“He thought I was running the boxing classes when I first started here! In reality, the PCYC is so much more than that.”
To purchase tickets for your magical night in Tamworth’s Winter Wonderland, visit the Humanitix website or stop by the PCYC in person.
Like what you’re reading? Support The New England Times by making a small donation today and help us keep delivering local news paywall-free. Donate now