The Lady Bjelke-Peterson Community Hospital will be better off, thanks to the generous fundraising by the community in Kingaroy late last month.
Host of the 2017 Mayors Charity Ball, Cr Keith Campbell, said early indications of funds are hovering around the $50 000 mark, making the night an absolute success.
“I can’t tell you how proud I am of this community and the way we have all come together to help this worthy cause,” Mayor Campbell said.
He specifically chose The South Burnett Community Hospital Foundation as the recipients of funds raised as he personally believes hospital and health services are a vital building block for the community.
“The community hospital having access to specialist equipment plays a vital role in ensuring we attract specialist doctors to our region,” he said.
The Mayor said anything we can do to keep our sick and elderly in town and not burden them with travel to major centres for treatments is also beneficial for everyone. He added that having more specialist services available also assists with attracting new families and new business’ to town, as people tend to look at what is available in an area before making major decisions about moving.
“Good hospital and health services are an important building block for our communities,” he said.
The Black Tie event saw 360 people in the Kingaroy Town Hall, a perfect venue for the glitz and glamour with its superior and now retro art deco interior. The suitable backdrop was made more special for the well-dressed patrons when matched by the high-end entertainment, including the in-demand, seven piece band, Honey, who had most on the floor by evening end.
But it was the entertainment by Ventriloquist, Mr Darren Carr, and his wooden/plastic side-kick which had the crowd in absolute hysterics. There was not many minorities or majorities left untouched by the quick witted and super funny Carr, but all was taken as it was intended.
The Mayor said the night was possible because of many generous sponsors and in particular, mentioned the local Super IGA for their $10 000 contribution.