Ballarat rallies to support young girl

BALLARAT residents and businesses have rallied behind a three-year-old girl with a rare and serious medical condition, raising funds and offering support at a community fundraiser last week.

A drag queen bingo night held at Piano Bar Ballarat raised $3500 for Geelong girl Phoebe Burke.

Phoebe has Abernethy malformation, a rare blood vessel condition that can prevent the liver from filtering toxins, with the potential to cause severe, and in some cases life-threatening, complications.

Her mother, Emily Burke, said the funds would help cover the cost of a specialised operation to be performed by a Chicago-based surgeon who is a specialist in the condition.

Ms Burke said the event was made possible with the help of her brother Shane and friends Tioni, Kate and Megan, who live in the greater Ballarat area and helped secure support from local businesses.

On the night, funds were raised through entry fees and the auction of donated items, but Ms Burke said the generosity extended well beyond financial contributions.

“It was a positive, successful night,” she said. “Everyone was really happy. I think it got the word out there a little bit more about Phoebe.”

She said several businesses even offered assistance during the event.

“I had someone contact me while they were there from a local travel agent that was offering her services to help us, to get where we need to go, which was really kind,” she said.

“There was a barber shop that donated something, and they ended up coming to the event as well.”

Ms Burke said she was especially grateful for the support shown by Piano Bar Ballarat and the performers.

“The drag queens were amazing. They were so kind and welcoming and warm towards us, which was really sweet,” she said.

“I just feel really positive about Piano Bar Ballarat. They’re just amazing; they’re so kind for doing that, choosing us.”

Another fundraising event for Phoebe has been organised for 1 March in Harcourt.

For more information, visit linktr.ee/hope_for_phoebe