More than 600 people attended the inaugural LJ Hooker Cancer Society Ball at Mystery Creek Events Centre
The inaugural LJ Hooker Cancer Society Ball held at Mystery Creek on Saturday was not only a hit with guests but also raised just over $100K for the Waikato Bay of Plenty (WaiBOP) Cancer Society.
The fundraiser, which attracted more than 600 people, was a first for the WaiBOP Cancer Society and organisers say that the event far exceeded expectations.
Simon & Gerda Elliott from LJ Hooker Cambridge, the event’s sponsors.
“We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received from the community and from our sponsors. Not only did we sell 200 more tickets than our original target but our fundraising activities alone raised $91,000.
“We anticipate that our final total will be just over $100K once all of the event costs and ticket sales have been taken into account,” says Catriona Findlay, Fundraising Manager for the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Cancer Society.
“All funds raised from the event will remain in the region to help people affected by cancer and to fund vital cancer research. It will also assist the Cancer Society to reduce the risk of cancer in the community through education and advocacy,” says Miss Findlay.
With TV3 stalwart Mike McRoberts as MC, a live performance by Waikato favourites Late 80s Mercedes, live and silent auctions, and a golden ticket raffle draw; the night was sure to be a hit. Popular live auction items on the night included two premium economy tickets to Asia or Europe from Singapore Airlines, a luxury weekend away for two at Kauri Cliffs and five nights accommodation for eight people in Noosa Heads, Australia.
The slogan for the event, ‘Have a ball…make it matter’ perfectly reflected the fun enjoyed by ball-goers
The slogan for the event was ‘Have a ball…make it matter’ and Miss Findlay says this perfectly captured what the event was about.
“We have had fantastic feedback from guests on the night and we were thrilled to see so many people from the region there supporting the event and participating in our fundraising activities.”
Sponsors, supporters and volunteers also played a vital role in the event and we are so grateful for their input says Miss Findlay. “We simply could not have done it without their help.”
