Two local charities have joined forces to raise vital funds and awareness for two of the communities most common cancers.
The Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation (HBCF) and Hunter Melanoma Foundation (HMF) came together late last year with the idea to create an event that would not only raise awareness and funds for both charities but encourage the community to enjoy a night out and start the conversation around breast cancer and melanoma.
The event was hosted by local drag queen sensation, Timberlina who had night of fun installed, including, drag bingo and trivia, delicious local food and drinks, auction and raffle prizes at Newcastle’s newest outdoor venue, The Station.
“I was so excited about bringing the community together for an event as unique as this,” Timberlina said.
“I think COVID-19 has had such an impact on everyone especially charities, so to be able to bring everyone together for such an important cause was really special.”
HBCF General Manager, Ellie Wells said that hosting an event with another local charity created an opportunity to reach a wider audience and share the foundations mission of providing practical support services to local families experiencing breast cancer.
“The Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation’s goal is to help as many local families through cancer as we possibly can. To work alongside the Hunter Melanoma Foundation in achieving this goal, not only for breast cancer but melanoma is incredible,” Ellie said.
“This event helped launched this collaboration so that we can help even more people in our community whilst encouraging other charities to do the same.”
When organising this event HMF Executive Officer, Claudia Tolhurst said that both foundations were overwhelmed with the support they received from both the local community and businesses around holding a collaborative event.
“We were blown away with how quickly the event sold out and the number of local businesses who were willing to get involved,” Claudia said.
“I think this reiterates the rich community we are lucky enough to be part of.”
The collaborative event raised $24,000 which will contribute to the wonderful work both foundations do within the local community.
This is the first time both HBCF and HMF have joined forces and due to the success of the event both foundations are working towards bringing more collaborative events to life in the future.
“I don’t think either Ellie or I were anticipating such a positive response from our local community and to raise $24,000 was just the cherry on top,” Claudia said.
“We have already started planning our next event which will be happening very soon – so stay tuned.
“HBCF is proud to have not only worked but continue to work alongside another incredible organisation to raise as much awareness about breast cancer and melanoma within the local community as possible,” Ellie said.
“I think one thing COVID-19 has taught us is that we are better together then apart.”
IMAGE | HBCF General Manager, Ellie Wells, Timberlina and HMF Executive Officer, Claudia Tolhurst (left-right).