Ray White Surfers Paradise Group raised the bar at its 23rd annual Muscular Dystrophy Ball, hosting more than 800 guests to raise more than $150,000 for the cause over the weekend.
Cementing its position as the Gold Coast’s premier annual social event, the Ball increased its guest numbers by 50 per cent on last year while generating the highest amount of money it has in a decade.
Moving to a larger venue this year at Jupiters Hotel and Casino, the Ball has become an institution on the Gold Coast and has to date raised more than $3 million for Muscular Dystrophy Queensland.
The evening’s hosts, Andrew & Greg Bell, said he was excited to see the event’s ongoing prosperity.
“Every year we push ourselves to make it better, to improve the experience for guests and in doing so, increase our fundraising impact for Muscular Dystrophy Queensland,” said Andrew Bell.
“It was uplifting to see guests were willing to give so generously to such an important cause in what was a very exciting and fast-paced charity auction.”
Auction items on the night included overseas holidays, luxurious accommodation, advertising packages and a brand new Volkswagen Polo.
Sunland’s Soheil Abedian laid down a $24,000 bid for the car but generously allowed his underbidder to take it on their highest bid of$23,000, effectively donating his funds to the cause.
“It’s acts like these - knowing we’ve brought the community together to do something good - that fills us with pride,” Mr Bell said.
The night’s headline entertainer, Ricki Lee was a highlight of the event, jumping off the stage to join the action on the dance floor.
“We love to showcase local talent and Ricki Lee was definitely a hit with the guests,” Mr Bell said.
“To say many people danced the night away is an understatement, the after party was packed and many people kicked on to the early hours of the morning – all in the name of a good cause.”
The Ball is an event very close to the heart of the directors of Ray White Surfers Paradise and muscular dystrophy is a cause they have pledged support to for years to come.
“People don’t realise how debilitating muscular dystrophy can be and that there is currently no cure,” Mr Bell said.
“It is important to help this cause in any way possible and we are so proud that we can contribute in a significant way.”
“The funds raised on the night will be evenly split between providing support for sufferers and funding research for a cure.”
RWSP Group now turns its focus to the Ray White Business Lunch Powered by V8 Supercars, which will take place on October 20 at the Gold Coast Convention Centre.
For more information visit RWSPevents.com.au.
