by Brooke Ellen Louttit
Broulee is gearing up to host the highly anticipated inaugural Australian Skin Cancer Foundation Winter Gala Ball on June 17, where the local community will come together for an enchanting evening of elegance and philanthropy.
Organised by community member Lee Louttit, this black-tie affair aims to raise awareness about the importance of skin cancer prevention while generating much-needed funds. Louttit expresses her gratitude, stating "Broulee and our other coastal communities are so generous and love to support a good cause. We look forward to sharing this night with them”.
Jay Allen, the CEO of the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation, sheds light on the Winter Gala Ball's significance and the crucial role it plays in combating skin cancer in Australia. Allen emphasises, "Funds from this event will benefit our four pillars of Advocacy, Education, Research, and Supporting those going through melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer... Events like the Winter Gala Ball provide an opportunity for the community to come together, have a great time, and contribute to a worthy cause."
As Australia continues to face the challenges posed by skin cancer, raising awareness and educating the public about prevention and early detection become imperative.
Allen highlights the educational impact of events like the Winter Gala Ball, stating, "We often hear many times how events like these save lives, with community members going to get a skin check after learning more about preventing skin cancer at the event and discovering deadly melanoma cancers or non-melanoma skin cancers, of which we have around 1 million cases each year."
With melanoma being the most common cancer among 15-39 year olds, Allen stresses that there is no safe way to tan, and with these statistics, he stresses "it's just not worth it."
Organiser Lee Louttit shares her heartfelt inspiration behind the Winter Gala Ball, stating, "I wanted to create an event that would be ongoing in memory of my brother, Anthony."
Tragically, Anthony lost his battle with a rare form of melanoma in September 2022. Throughout his final years, Anthony dedicated his time to raising funds and awareness for the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation, forging a close bond with its Founder and CEO, Jay Allen.
The Winter Gala Ball promises to be an unforgettable experience within the beautifully renovated Broulee Surf Club. With its expanded capacity to accommodate 150 guests, the venue sets the stage for a spectacular evening. Attendees will be greeted on the red carpet with a glass of bubbles, and can expect an evening of elegance and celebration. To ensure an electrifying atmosphere on the dance floor, popular local band Soul Tonic will take the stage. Renowned for their ability to get people up and moving, their performance guarantees an unmissable night.
The Winter Gala Ball aims to make a substantial contribution to the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation, with Louttit expressing her hope that the event will raise significant funds.
Louttit mentions that she hosted a similar event in 2019, where over $16,000 was raised through ticket sales, raffles, silent auctions, and donations. She hopes this years event will surpass the previous success.
Local businesses have the unique opportunity to show their support through several sponsorship opportunities, which include having their logo displayed on the event's Media Wall. However, these opportunities are limited and will only be available until May 31st to allow for design and printing. Businesses are encouraged to act quickly to secure their positions.
For those unable to attend the Winter Gala Ball, there are alternative ways to show support by donating through the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation website. Every contribution plays a crucial role in advancing skin cancer prevention, research, education and support initiatives.
The Winter Gala Ball will not only be a beautiful night out for the community, but a powerful statement of unity in the fight against skin cancer. The Australian Skin Cancer Foundation is committed to making a difference and saving lives from this prevalent disease, and encourage you and your loved ones to #getaskincheck. Join us on this very special night to help spread the message of prevention and early detection.
