A shared vision to support youth in the Hunter region has brought together Bean Counters Ball and Hunter Young Professionals (hyp) ahead of its popular annual event, now in its ninth year.

Bean Counters Ball and hyp have partnered for the first time to recognise young professionals in the Hunter region under the age of 40 who have demonstrated initiative or contributions that benefit the community and that are outside their professional roles.

Judges will review applications and select one outstanding individual who will be awarded the Young Achiever Award at this year’s Bean Counters Ball taking place on Friday 25 October at Newcastle Exhibition and Convention Centre (NEX).

Themed ‘The Hollywood Ball’ in 2019, Bean Counters Ball Committee Chairperson, Bernadette Smyth said 400 people are expected at the black-tie event to help support this year’s charity partners and celebrate the recipient of the Young Achiever Award.

“It was only fitting for us to partner with hyp for our Young Achiever Award. hyp is the Hunter region’s network designed for the newer generation and their purpose to provide personal and professional development opportunities for young professionals in the region fitted perfectly with our cause for the evening,” Bernadette said.

“The award will be presented to an applicant from any industry who has shown promise and commitment to their community in the early years of their career.”

Applications are now open for the Young Achiever Award until 2 September.

Bernadette said discounted early bird tickets are also now available.

“We’re encouraging guests to join us for a night of glitz and glamour as we support a great cause again in 2019 – Samaritans Student Accommodation and the Hunter TAFE Foundation,” Bernadette said.

“Samaritans’ service supports young people in developing the skills needed to maintain a permanent and stable living arrangement. Many of the young residents have been at risk or are experiencing homelessness when they come to the service.”

The proceeds of the ball are also donated to the Hunter TAFE Foundation, providing scholarships supporting youth education in business, accounting or finance.

“The committee believes that professionals have a responsibility to support young people in our community and with the generosity of sponsors and guests, we look forward to continuing to provide opportunities for young people to learn and grow,” Bernadette said.

The Bean Counters Ball is a joint initiative between local members of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand and CPA Australia which has raised over $180,000 since its launch in 2011.

Guests at this year’s ball will enjoy live entertainment, as well as the Bean Counters Ball signature lucky dips and raffles to raise money for the cause.

“This event would not be possible without the support of our sponsors. Our Gold Sponsors for the 2019 event include Rapsey Griffiths, Jirsch Sutherland, Jenkins Legal, MCG Quantity Surveyors, NEX, Peter Drayton Wines, FUNDA, Monica Clare Recruitment and Morrissey Law and Advisory,” Bernadette said.

Tickets can be purchased through the Bean Counters Ball website either individually or for a table of ten and includes beer and wine, a delicious three course meal and entertainment.

IMAGE | Madeleine Tiedeman, Bernadette Smyth and Lauren Armstrong (left – right)