GS Kidd Memorial School and The Gatepost Support Services are celebrating a hugely successful fundraising event.
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More than 300 people filled the Gunnedah Town Hall on Friday night to watch Entertainment Works’ cabaret show, Tinsel Town, and participate in an auction. Local Bryce Ellis also took to the stage to perform as Sheila Work, and local musicians played in the band Uptown Groove.
Gatepost’s Gen Giddoes said the funds raised “looks significantly more than the $10,000 they made last year”.
“It was just the hugest success,” she said.
“We’re just overwhelmed with such generous sponsorship and support from the Gunnedah community and businesses.”
The event has been held for three years but it was the first time an auction had taken place.
Mrs Gittoes said the auction was “fabulous”, with Chris Gittoes bringing a “comical flavour to the night” in his role as auctioneer.
Among the significant purchases was a cricket bat signed by Ricky Ponting, auctioned for $1850, and a signed Wiggles poster, which brought in $1650.
“This is a great story,” she said.
“[The poster] was bought for $800 by Prime Engineering then [Wayne English] just donated it back and then it was bought by Brendan McClare by $850, so that particular item went for $1650.”
Gunnedah Shire Council donated the town hall for the event, Rotary 2380 ran the cash bar and hospitality students from St Mary’s College worked hard in the kitchen.
“From our perspective, it was great to partner with GS Kidd. Sharne and her awesome team need to be congratulated and also the board of volunteers at The Gatepost,” Mrs Gittoes said.
“We have a board of 12 volunteers who were able to add that foot power.
“Events like that take a lot of hard work. All the hard work was brought through to fruition.”
Gatepost founder Sarah Ferguson said it was a “fabulous” event.
“It was such a great night and the [Entertainment Works] show was every bit as exciting as it was last year.”
Ms Ferguson said she was “so grateful” to GS Kidd for partnering with The Gatepost to raise funds for both sides.
“We learnt so much about what needs to happen to put a show on. And there is so much effort that goes in from so many people,” she said.
“Thank you to the whole community.”
GS Kidd principal Sharne Turpin echoed the sentiments of The Gatepost.
“The atmosphere was amazing on Friday night,” she said.
“We're fortunate to have a supportive and generous community.”
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