The roaring 20s came to Lismore, and the Northern Rivers dug deep, raising more than $200,000 for women and children escaping domestic and family violence.
The money will go to Women Up North (WUN) and its local refuge, Bugalma Bihyn Aboriginal Women’s Refuge, which can house up to five families at a time.
“This is not just a gala – it’s a call to action,” said Women Up North CEO Jillian Knight-Smith.
“We are seeing more women and children in crisis than ever before and having somewhere safe to go can change everything.”
More than 300 guests packed the sold-out event at Lismore Workers Club on Saturday, 24 October, dressed in their finest 1920s outfits for a night of live music, dancing, and fundraising.
The annual gala has now raised more than $600,000 since it started in 2023.
This year’s money will cover the refuge’s essential running costs, including power, cleaning, and maintenance.
It will also pay for upgrades to the refuge’s outdoor spaces, including a new garden and a playground for children and families.
“These funds raised by our community will help Women Up North create safe, calming outdoor spaces where children can play and families can begin to heal,” Knight-Smith said.
“Our vision is for Bugalma Bihyn to be a place of dignity, safety and recovery for women, children and young people who stay with us.”
The gala was hosted by Women Up North and backed by investment management firm Challenger. It brought together locals, businesses, and corporate partners to support women, children, and young people facing domestic, family, and sexual violence across the Northern Rivers.
“This year’s gala was a huge success, and it’s an event I look forward to every year,” said Challenger Chief Executive Nick Hamilton.
“You can’t leave without feeling moved by the generosity in the room and inspired by the extraordinary work the Women Up North team do for women and children across the region.”
The money came from community donations, raffles, auctions, and sponsorships from local and national organisations, with local businesses donating raffle prizes and auction items.
Under the theme Glitz. Glam. Gala, the night was hosted by drag queen Hannah Conda.
Guests heard a heartfelt Welcome to Country from Jenny Smith, watched a performance by the Ninhi Nari Gali Bundjalung dance group, and enjoyed entertainment from 42 Band.
“Challenger is proud to be part of that journey,” Hamilton said.
“This year’s proceeds will help in very direct and practical ways to ease the burden on those affected by domestic and family violence, and businesses have an important role to play alongside the community in helping create a safer and fairer society.”
Don’t miss any of the important stories from around the region. Subscribe to our email list.