Disco fever hit the Spring Plains community on March 16 as it swirled the clock back to the 1970s, hosting a Studio 54-style ball to raise funds for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.
“We were absolutely blown away to raise $86,000,” said Angus Moore, chair of the Spring Plains Fundraising Committee.
“Thank you to everyone who attended, bought a raffle ticket, supported in-kind or sponsored the event – your generosity will go to a service that is so vital to our community.”
Stormy skies and wet weather only lifted spirits at the Spring Plains soirée as the farming community’s much-loved country hall was transformed into a scene from the iconic 1970s nightclub Studio 54, decorated with spinning mirror disco balls, sparkling flashing lights, and sprinkled with glitter and gold galore.
Throwing back to a time when Glomesh was considered a wardrobe staple, chic necklines were plunging, bright jumpsuits were banging, satin was suave, velvet was in vogue, skirts were short, platform boots were tall, fabrics were bold, flares were in fashion, and girls couldn’t get enough of the ‘Farrah Fawcett Flick’.
The glamorous plains’ party guests dressed to impress and channelled the eclectic era of fashion by wearing dazzling retro rompers, oversized shades, sharp suits, and sparkly sky-high dancing shoes.
Many raided relatives’ wardrobes to find the perfect vintage look while others opted for a stylish smattering of sequins, or a wild wig hairdo.
Walking the red carpet with swagger and style, attendees were welcomed through a shimmering disco ball archway where mystery hands in shiny silver gloves passed through a complimentary drink for guests to kick-start their evening.
“It was a great night on the plains, and I want to say a big thank you to the fundraising committee and to those who helped put the evening together,” said Angus.
“We have a terrific group of local people who get stuck in and carry out their roles without fuss or fanfare – thank you.
“And thank you to our valued sponsors who have helped us donate an amazing amount to the WRHS and therefore help provide a service which we all consider crucial for our community.
“Thanks also to our local businesses and partners for helping to make the event such a success: Corey Bennett and the crew behind the bar for keeping everyone refreshed; Craig from Scotch and Soda Music for travelling from Sydney to take us back to the Studio 54 dancefloor; and Treen White and the team from Relish Catering who always do such a brilliant job.
“It was good to welcome David and Sharon Grellman home for the night, they have been so heavily involved with our function and the Wee Waa support group for many, many years.
“And of course, WRHS representatives Kim Newling and Steven Adams – it was so good to see them all dressed up at our party on the plains and I want to thank them for their support and for the crucial service they help provide.
“Especially Kim for answering all our questions and for her assistance during the Covid-19 delays – we got there in the end and what a fantastic night it was.
“Thank you to all our guests for coming and for getting into the spirit of the 1970s.”
WRHS volunteers coordinator for the New England North West Kim Newling told attendees she had “no words to express my absolute gratitude and surprise at the amount raised”.
“The last event (at Spring Plains) was 2019 – we received $35,000 and to come back and receive $86,000 is just amazing.
“I can’t wait to get back to the Tamworth helicopter base and share this with our team. These funds approximately equate to nine return trips – potentially saving nine lives. These funds will go to ensuring we continue to operate 24/7 and support the communities of our region.”
Overwhelmed, Kim humbly and graciously thanked everyone at the event, the Spring Plains committee, and the ‘amazingly generous sponsors’ of the event.
“I enjoy working with the committee,” she said.
“And welcome back Sharon and David Grellman who I’ve worked with since I started almost 11 years ago.”
In the last 20 years, the Spring Plains Fundraising Committee has rallied to raise an impressive $306,000 for the WRHS, with the support of sponsors, the committee, guests, and the wider community.
“It’s a tribute to the hard work and commitment of our small but mighty community at Spring Plains,” said Angus.
“We all hope we never need to use the rescue chopper, but the reality is we all know people in the community who have and it’s important that we continue to support it because we need it.”
