With a sold-out crowd of 192 attendees, the highly anticipated Jane McGrath High Tea, held at the Corowa RSL Club on Sunday, proved to be a remarkable success, raising over $14,000 in support of breast cancer patients and their families.
From heart-warming personal stories to daring head shaves and spirited auctions, the event was a true celebration of strength, resilience, and community unity.
Guests were greeted with bubbles upon arrival, setting the festive and celebratory tone of the event, followed by delicious food, which consisted of delectable cakes, macarons, sausage rolls, scones, and more.
Among the impressive amount of money raised, a significant contribution of $3,000 came from three courageous individuals who volunteered to shave their heads in support of the cause.
Reilly Anderson and John Mensch, both Corowa RSL staff members, joined forces with Wahgunyah resident Suze Rogashoff, who took everyone by surprise with her selfless act. The head shaves were done by local hairdresser Naomi Robb from Gnomes Mobile Hairdressing.
The event provided an opportunity for the community to hear from brave local women who shared their personal experiences with breast cancer.
Michelle Black and Rebecca Pickering captivated the crowd with their stories, receiving a well-deserved applause for their strength and resilience. Both Michelle and Rebecca were full of praise for the breast cancer nurses who supported them during their experiences, as well as their own families and communities who were there for them.
Guest speaker Ash Joseph, co-owner of Back on Track, shed light on the role of physiotherapy in aiding the recovery of cancer patients, delivering an inspiring message of hope.
A highlight of the day was the spirited auctions, which generated an impressive $6,800. Local and regional businesses generously donated an array of fantastic prizes. The auctions were conducted by the charismatic and witty auctioneer Peter Ellis, who ensured a lively and entertaining atmosphere throughout the bidding process.
The event boasted several highly sought-after items, including a Helifly voucher for two and an enticing getaway package at the Sebel Yarrawonga.
In addition to the auctions, raffles and door prizes further contributed to the fundraising efforts.
Organisers Kay Blakeley and Kylie Witherden expressed their elation at the tremendous turnout and the overwhelming support from the community.
“We are absolutely thrilled with the incredible support from the community,” Ms Blakeley said.
“I would like to also thank the Corowa RSL Club for their support and assistance in making this event a tremendous success. From coordinating the fantastic food provided by your dedicated staff, led by the wonderful Helen King, to ensuring that everything ran smoothly throughout the day, we are very grateful.
“Thank you to our event photographer, Kayla and also to everyone who attended and contributed to this remarkable cause.”
The funds raised during the event will go towards supporting McGrath Breast Care Nurses who provide invaluable support and care to women and men experiencing breast cancer.