More than 200 people raised upwards of $15,000 at the annual Mount Gambier Breast Cancer Awareness Group pink party fundraiser on Friday night, while also paying tribute to the late Olivia Newton-John.
Those attended took the opportunity to dress as a mixture of Olivia Newton-John characters, with a variety of Sandy Olssons from Grease including ‘Good Sandy’, ‘Naughty Sandy’, the Ryedale High Cheer Squad and the Pink Ladies.
Mount Gambier Breast Cancer Awareness Group member Jill Gilmore said Heidi Rutton stole the show as John Travolta.
“She had Olivias coming up to her and asking to dance or for a photo,” she said.
“Debbie Kestle dressed up in a thong for ‘Let’s Get Physical’ thinking other people were wearing that and was mortified to discover they were not.
“However, she still joined in the fun and was fabulous.”
There was a fundraising raffle, silent auction and an auction conducted by Scott Creek.
Complimentary wine on arrival was donated by Morambo Creek Wines, Hunter KJ & G provided the bus for transportation on the night and DJ Brett Mashado kept everyone dancing.
Ms Gilmore said Louise Adams was amazing as the guest compere despite her nerves at the start of the evening.
“Louise sang Hopelessly Devoted To You by Olivia Newton John and several original songs,” she said.
“She paraded items around at the auction, joining in like she was one of our group, which the crowd loved.
“Scott Creek was great with the auctioning and really drew the girls in.”
Ms Gilmore said it was the fundraiser’s second year at the Glenburnie racecourse.
“We are in a new venue which is working really well and there is plenty of space,” she said.
“We loved being at the Commodore, but the event just grew so we had to find a new premises.
“We appreciate the racecourse for donating the venue and all they do.”
Ms Gilmore said the night was well received by everyone who attended.
“There was a really good vibe in the room and it was a fun, caring, sharing kind of night,” she said.
“The women just wanted to dance and party and make new friends while donating to a worthy cause.
“It’s fantastic and of course we want to raise money but to see all these women together is just incredible.
“Thank you to the donors and everybody who pitched in, we are grateful for all the support.”
