Dressed to the nines, they were presented to matron of honour Jan Watling, and members of the official party Mal Barnes, Norm and Narelle Pearce, and Bega Junior Showgirl Renee Cooper.

It was the first ball for new organiser Kirsty Umbers who had assistance with the debs’ training from Morgan Durrant-Curtis, Ernie and Denise Vinecombe, and Marea Russell.

Jennifer Russell was the event’s emcee while local rock band Thundergoose kept everyone dancing into the night. 

Ms Umbers said it was an enjoyable but slightly daunting task taking over the organising duties from Jan Watling, who has looked after the Bega deb ball for more than 30 years.

“It was lovely and everyone had a great time,” Ms Umbers said.

“There were lots of lovely compliments about the night and the decorations.

“I’m keen to do it again, but I can see the value of having a team of great helpers!”

Ms Umbers thanked several people and business for their support:

Jackie Steel for donating the beautiful cake; Danny from Design Post for donating the welcome sign and photo booth; MGM for painting some of the props; Bega Cheese for loaning us the white chair sashes; Swannies for the boys’ suit hire; Georgies for loaning us some of the centrepieces; and Kelly for creating the beautiful flower arrangements.

Debutantes and their partners:

Tia Eder & Sam Jolley

Leah Schaefer & Jai Curven

Alice Stewart & Jack McCoy

Malah Bennedick & Marlie Chapman

Ella Spurling & Layne Maher

Kate Oastler & Kallen Coady

Aleesha Dummett & Luke Walters

Nikki Ainsworth & Dean Shipton

Manbir Randhawa  & Olly Pitts

Meika Hoyland & Ash Bailey

Dazi Burhop & Eyrl Boulton

Ada Hall & Alexander Eadie

Lili Armstrong & Aiden Shannon

Bethany Jee & Lara Bertella

Brooke Nielson & Jai Pentecost

Jazzmyn Bennett & Mitchell Allman

Natarlia Went & Flynn Cook

Pageboys - Lawson Umbers & Luke Mitchell-Blacker

Flower girls - Sarah Wiley & Eva Pope