Fundraiser delivers plus to local allied health

MORE than 300 local women dug deep into their pockets and helped to raise vital funds for Kids+ at their annual Grand Final Eve Ladies Luncheon fundraiser last Friday at The Pier in Geelong.

The Geelong community dressed in their most bright, floral and bold style to play a crucial role in supporting babies, children and young people living with a disability.

Local entertainment on the day included band Test Pilot Molly, drag performer Amanduh and master of ceremonies Roxie Bennett.

Multiple local businesses sponsored the event and assisted with prizes, including AMDA Foundation (Australian Air Show), Australian Skin, Face and Body and Coulter Legal.

Kids+ marketing manager Sharon Gibbons said the 11th edition of the event went down as one of the biggest and best yet.

“A real highlight for us was having our Kids+ Young Adult Group present.

“Usually, we hear from parents of our younger cohort or the Kids+ Team, however this year we heard directly from young women with lived experience who communicated with the audience through their AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) devices.

“This really seemed to resonate with the crowd.”

Event attendee Jacqui McKim also threw her support behind the event.

“It was a beautiful event that was enriched in its meaningfulness through true and authentic inclusion and a focus on the work of Kids+.”

Preparations are now underway to bring the event back in 2024.

A final tally of funds is still being calculated.

For more on Kids+, head to kidsplus.org.au/