The 2023 Mayoral Ball has delivered a major boost to education in the Balonne Shire with a donation of $50,635 to the Balonne Country Universities Centre to support local students.
The donation was handed over to the Balonne CUC at their 2023 End-of year Graduation Ceremony and will cover student bursaries to support student’s travel and the cost of other resources associated with their studies.
Since the centre began in May 2021, the Balonne Country Universities Centre has welcomed 232 students, which far exceeds the original target of 38 students over the first four years.
Balonne Shire Mayor, Samantha O’Toole was delighted to have the Mayoral Ball create such a great result for education in the Shire.
“I’m absolutely delighted that the Mayoral Ball was able to raise and contribute over $50,000 towards helping our youth follow their education goals whilst staying in the Shire, close to their families and loved ones,” said Mayor O’Toole.
“The Balonne Country Universities Centre has become an absolutely game-changing initiative for our Shire and it is an honour to be able to further support their efforts.
“The Mayoral Ball was a wonderful night, with 135 people attending the event and involved some big-hearted bidding throughout the auction, fundraising activities and generous contributions from our corporate sponsors.
“All combined the evening raised a substantial sum of money to support local students to achieve their education goals, without them having to leave their hometown.
“I would like to extend a massive thank you to everyone who attended, contributed and donated at the Mayoral Ball, as your support has further strengthened our Shire.”
Balonne Country Universities Centre Chair Matthew Magin welcomed the donation which he said will provide a great boost to support for local students.
“The aim of our organisation is to empower the Balonne community to fulfil their potential through higher education by providing highly connected learning communities in St George and Dirranbandi,” said Mr Magin.
“We are extremely grateful for the amazing sponsors, organisers, and attendees of the 2023 Balonne Mayoral Ball whose generosity affords students at CUC Balonne with opportunities to pursue their dreams without having to relocate.
“The Centre is also creating vibrant and more prosperous futures for themselves and the wider community.”
Sponsors for the 2023 Mayoral Ball included Leading Roles, Lonergan’s Projects, AJ and JH Earthmoving, Dale Hadenfeldt, Teirney, Balonne Airwork, Cubbie Ag, McInnes Wilson, Complete Urban, Telstra and Hasting Deering.
