A Saturday evening, Oaklands Event Centre, Pambula was transformed into something between Ye Olde Merrie England and Middle Earth as medieval kings, queens, fairies, elves, archers and the noble men and women of the region gathered for the annual Mumbulla Foundation Gala Charity Dinner.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The organisers of the Mumbulla Foundation Ball work hard to produce an unusual and interestingly themed night for the event which is a major fundraiser for the charity which only gives to local charities. The 5th Mumbulla Foundation was no exception and was a huge success, raising over $17,000 for the Bega Valley Community.
Using the theme of a Midsummer Nights Dream Ball over 100 guests attended the enchanted forest themed evening and came from all corners of the valley – from Tilba, Eden and even Canberra. Special guests attending the night included NSW Treasurer Andrew Constance, the new Bega Valley Shire Mayor, Michael Britten and Deputy Mayor Liz Seckold.
Oaklands Event Centre looked sensational as a magical woodland with giant stars, fluffy clouds, teardrop lighting and nests made by the Mumbulla Dinner’s decoration team. Greenery and lanterns adorned the entrance as guests arrived.
Richard Parbery, director of Bega Cheese, looking every inch King Richard, said that he was very proud of the support the company had been able to provide. Bega Cheese has given $100,000 towards carer accommodation at the new hospital.
"We love to see our community getting together to help others," he said.
It was a sentiment echoed by member for Bega, Andrew Constance. Standing in a clock and feathered hat he said he couldn't get over the way everyone dressed up and came together for the event. "Never forget the enormous contribution you're making to the community," he said.
After the speeches, guests were served a three course medieval feast designed by head chef Clinton Pendlebury.
The entertainment included roving minstrel Mike Martin entertaining guests on arrival and fantasy face painting by Joy and Bonnie Clarke of Facepainting FX with the Colleen Spillane Quartet getting everyone out on the floor till late into the night.
There were some notable standout costumes and accessories among the guests. Organiser Bettina Ritcher, looked amazing in her wood, fur and leather creation, while South Coast Tourism's, Anthony Osborne was a very creepy hooded monk with his bloodshot lenses. The face painters produced some incredible effects on the faces of many willing guests.
Bettina said: "The Mumbulla Foundation are thrilled with the incredible success of their gala evening and would particularly like to acknowledge the very generous financial and in-kind support of over 75 businesses, individuals and community who supported the dinner.
"The Mumbulla Foundation’s success wouldn’t have been possible without the immense support of principal partner Bega Cheese who has supported the dinner since 2010. Other major business sponsors include Fairfax Regional Media, 2EC and Excell Printing, Sapphire Coast Buslines and Oaklands Event Centre."
