Jessica Kellett 4th May 2009 Joint winners of the Best-dressed Op Shop Formal outfits Amanda Bronfield (right), of Lennox Head, and Sara Hubble
(left), of Ballina, with David Duff, of Mullumbimby, who won the men’s event. THEY dressed up in long-forgotten op shop clothes for the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Gala Charity Ball on Saturday. The unique dress theme of ‘Op Shop Formal’ had many wearing outrageous combinations for the charity event in Lismore City Hall. Business development manager of the Westpac Life Saver Helicopter service, Nyree Epplett, said the themeadded to the fun of the night. “All the props used for the theme were from the service’s op shop, like vases and lace for the tables,†Ms Epplett said. Of the 24 items auctioned off during the evening, a framed rugby league jersey signed by 40 of league’s greatest players of the past 50 years sold for $2500 as the highest auction piece. Although he was not the highest auctioned piece, Sam Little said he had fun as a slave for the ladies of the Strengthening Educating Advancing Global Enterprises Co-operation. “I had to get drinks for them, dance with them and give them shoulder massages,†Mr Little said. Ms Epplett said Mr Little was auctioned off at around $200 for his services. Guests of the ball ranged from pilots and crew of the service to the mayor of Lismore, Jenny Dowell, and State Member for Lismore Thomas George. Employees of The Northern Star also took part in the evening. Ms Epplett said promotions co-ordinator of The Star, Sara Hubble, shared first prize for most original dressed female with Amanda Bronfield of Lennox Head. Although there has not been a formal count yet, Ms Epplett said the event raised around $10,000. “It was a great night,†she said.
21 April – 21 May