Wombat’s Wish gala night returns

A LOCAL charity has announced details about its major fundraising night this year, revealing an array of high-profile ambassadors to headline the biennial event.

Drysdale-based charity Wombat’s Wish will host its Fundraising Gala Night on March 2 at GMHBA Stadium’s Presidents Room.

The Fundraising Gala, the first since 2022, will feature two of the charity’s ambassadors, Geelong Cats player Tom Hawkins and Melbourne Vixens player Emily Mannix.

Wombat’s Wish patron and CEO of the Carton Football Club Brian Cook will also talk about the foundation and its impact on the region.

Charity community engagement officer Suzy Coad said the charity hopes to ramp up preparations for next year’s gala night more than on previous occasions.

“It’s very exciting to inform the community of the date of next year’s gala night considering we had to postpone last year’s event on two separate occasions. We have our ambassadors lined up for next year already so we’re extremely happy to have Tom, Emily, and Brian with us once again.

“We’re hopeful Travis Boak from Port Adelaide will be in attendance as well, but we’re not sure yet.

“It’s a great night and it’s always inspiring for us here at Wombat’s Wish to see the community turn out in force to support our work. We can’t wait to see everyone again.”

Wombat’s Wish last gala night raised more than $21,000 at its previous gala night in April, with all funds directed to the charity.

Funds raised from the gala night will be diverted to sending children who suffer from grief and are in-need of support.

Ms Coad said it cost at least $23,000 to run a camp for its participants.

“It’s quite a bit of money and because we’re a not-for-profit, we have to do as much fundraising as possible and because the gala night is a highlight of the year, it gives us as a charity to raise as much money as we can.

“We are also broadening our team on the clinical side of things, so we’ll be able to conduct more counselling and broadening our scope around Drysdale and the rest of greater Geelong.”

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