Fashionable fundraiser raises $48,000 to support local cancer patients

Casey Tomkins, Tegan Tomkins, Libby Newton, Jordan Tomkins, Zoe Waters, Jayne Tomkins and Libby Bate. Photos: SUPPLIED

BARWON Health Foundation’s fashionable CatWalk4Cancer event has helped to generate $48,000 to support Geelong’s Andrew Love Cancer Centre and cancer services across the region.

More than 200 locals frocked up for the annual night of fashion and fundraising at the new Geelong Arts Centre on Saturday evening.

Hosted by local business owners, Demi Duncan and Melinda Baxter, attendees were treated to live fashion parades from local brands including Westfield Geelong, Bird Skin, Pearls and Roses Bridal, Pearls and Roses Lifestyle, SUKii Boutique, Cercle Lifestyle and Vow Studio.

The Catwalk4Cancer event was attended by more than 200 people.

Event MC’s Demi Duncan and Melinda Baxter with event creative director and stylist Fleur Wood.

Event partner, Ceres Life showcased their latest collection in an installation within the Geelong Arts Centre foyer space, while acclaimed local artist Deb Fisher completed a live painting during the event to be auctioned off towards the cause.

Well-loved Geelong local Nicole Baumann headlined the evening by sharing her inspirational life story.

Aged 21, Ms Baumann became the youngest Victorian at the time to be diagnosed with cervical cancer.

Her battle saw her undergo surgeries, chemotherapy treatments and radiation, which left her unable to have her own children.

Nicole Baumann (right) was the special guest speaker on the evening.

Now, cancer free and living happily, Ms Baumann shared she and her husband are now on the life-changing journey to become parents via surrogacy.

Barwon Health Foundation executive director Zoe Waters said the charity’s 13th fashion and fundraising event went down as one of their best.

“It was just a beautiful night of giving back to the local health service, especially appreciated in the current financial climate.

“Geelong’s fashion community always come out in force for a good cause.

Models from local brands Birdskin and Pearls & Roses.

The Ceres Life installation in the Geelong Arts Centre foyer.

“We are so appreciative of all our sponsors, event partners and attendees who really embraced the spirit of giving on the night.

“All funds raised will directly support Barwon Health’s Andrew Love Cancer Centre and cancer services and help assist locals navigating a cancer journey, just like Nicole Baumann.”