The Bean Counters Ball committee will hold their annual fundraiser in October to raise much-needed funds to support youth and education in the Hunter.

300 people from the region’s accounting and business community are expected at the black-tie event, hosted by Australian Comedian, Akmal Saleh at the Newcastle Exhibition and Convention Centre (NEX) on Friday 27 October.

The event is a joint initiative between local members of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand and CPA Australia. Since its launch in 2011, the committee has raised more than $120,000.

Committee Chairperson, Chad Stead said the ball is a reminder of the importance of education for young people.

“The committee is dedicated to creating another memorable night to change lives and we are looking forward to hearing from young people at the event as they share their story and the impact of our support,” Chad said.

The proceeds of the ball are donated to Samaritans Student Accommodation, offering supported accommodation, education and employment opportunities to young people, and to the Hunter TAFE Foundation, providing scholarships supporting youth education in business, accounting or finance.

“We are excited to again partner with Samaritans and the Hunter TAFE Foundation in 2017. With the generosity of sponsors and guests, we look forward to continuing to make a real difference in the lives of young people in our community,” Chad said.

“The committee believes that our profession has a social responsibility to provide opportunities to the youth in our community.”

Guests at the 2017 black-tie masquerade ball will enjoy live entertainment, canapés, dinner, dessert and 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 2017 event include Rapsey Griffiths, Merchant Business Brokers, Jirsch Sutherland, Jenkins Legal, MCG Quantity Surveyors, Reckon and Peter Drayton Wines,” Chad said.

IMAGE | Bean Counters Ball 2016.