The annual Stars of the Hunter charity campaign has culminated in a high-profile performance gala, raising $230,000 for Cancer Council NSW. The initiative brought together business, healthcare, and education executives from across Newcastle and the Hunter Valley, tasking them with completing a 12-week intensive dance training programme before performing live at the regional showcase.
The funds generated from the event are allocated directly to Cancer Council NSW’s regional research portfolios, prevention programmes, and local patient support networks.
Taking out the Highest Fundraiser Award for the 2026 campaign was Australian Christian College (ACC) Singleton Principal, Tim Shields, who raised a total of $28,062 through targeted community and corporate partnerships.
Tim noted that the fundraising campaign relied heavily on cross-sector backing from regional enterprises and industry groups.
“When the opportunity arose to represent ACC Singleton and the broader community in the fight toward a cancer-free future, I jumped at the chance,” Tim said.
“When asked my favourite dance genre, I said ‘fast and fun,’ and it certainly was both! I was very nervous about that first lesson, but trading the school yard for a fast-paced routine was a thoroughly enjoyable experience.”
The corporate lineup featured prominent faces from across the Hunter business community, including Newcastle-based digital marketers, regional health administrators, and independent retail directors. Participants underwent rigorous choreography sessions led by local instructors, including professional choreographer Dominique, to prepare distinct routines ranging from contemporary to ballroom.
Tim emphasised that the collaborative nature of the campaign was the primary driver behind clearing the $230,000 regional milestone.
“Our campaign was built on a foundation of local collaboration, and I want to formally acknowledge our major Star Sponsors, Business Singleton and Christian Education Ministries (CEM). Their backing, alongside the expert choreography of Dominique, was instrumental in helping us secure the Highest Fundraiser Award,” Tim said.
“More importantly, playing a part in a campaign that injected over $230,000 into Cancer Council NSW’s work is a proud milestone for our region. It highlights exactly what can be achieved when local education, business, and community leaders stand together.”
Other notable participants driving the campaign’s success included representatives from the Newcastle legal sector, Hunter Valley real estate agencies, and local government representatives. Over the past decade, the Stars of the Hunter events have become a critical mechanism for funding grassroots cancer support services across regional New South Wales, bridging corporate social responsibility with direct community healthcare outcomes.
IMAGE | Corporate and education leaders raise over $230,000 at Stars of the Hunter gala
