Guests were all shook up as they slipped on their blue suede shoes and donned their best Elvis-era outfits to celebrate Jono Phelps’ 70th birthday at House on Rose recently.
With a little less conversation and a lot more rock ’n’ roll, the Elvis-themed bash was not only a memorable milestone but also an impressive fundraiser, with $12,000 raised for the vital Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.
The cause is close to the hearts of Mr Phelps and his wife Wendy, long‑time supporters of the WRHS through years of volunteering with the Wee Waa support group and events at Spring Plains.
Mr Phelps asked guests to skip the gifts, but said if they felt the need to be generous, please donate to the lifesaving helicopter service.
Friends and family travelled from near and far to attend the Wee Waa district farmer’s birthday party, with Mr Phelps saying the occasion was the perfect excuse to get everyone together.
The crowd enjoyed entertaining speeches from Mr Phelps, his wife Wendy, daughter Anna Hall, friend Kevin Schwager and cousin Greg Phelps.
Of course, the King was well and truly in the building, with an Elvis tribute performer Terry Leonard, taking to the stage to belt out the greatest hits – from Hound Dog to Jailhouse Rock and Viva Las Vegas – sparking plenty of spinning and a little hip-shaking, which caused a few suspicious minds.
It was a fun afternoon filled with laughter, fabulous catch-ups and legendary tunes – a celebration and fundraiser that struck all the right chords.
Thank you to John Burgess Photography for providing such fabulous photos.
