Now in its twelfth year, the annual St Patrick’s College Gala Ball has concluded its most successful event to date, raising funds to support scholarships for more than 20 girls.
This ball is one of several large-scale celebrations held to mark the Campbelltown school for girls 185th anniversary year.
The Legacy of Light Gala Ball was Campbelltown’s night of nights and was hosted by multi award-winning performer Cameron Daddo.
More than 350 of Macarthur’s most prominent business owners, philanthropists and community members sat down to enjoy a sumptuous three-course meal at Campbelltown Catholic Club, however, not one of them could be found in their seats when Samantha Jade and her dancers stepped out to deliver an electrifying 20-minute set that included showstopping vocals, dance and an audience singalong.
College principal Mary Leask said the large turnout at the event demonstrated the strong support of the local community for young women to access quality schooling, to pursue their passions free of gender biases and to live freely and in safety.
“I am very proud of the hidden gem that is St Patrick’s College as it continues to enliven the wider community as a beacon of hope and light for young women,” Ms Leask said in her speech.
One of the highlights of the evening included an interview Cameron Daddo conducted with Stephanie Allington and Michelle Bunder, both alumni of St Patrick’s pictured here).
When it came to choosing a high school, Stephanie wanted to follow in her sister Michelle’s footsteps and attend St Pat’s, but the sudden passing of their girls’ mother meant that the financial commitment would be prohibitive for their single-income family.
This changed when Stephanie was awarded a scholarship that took her from Year 7 to Year 12.
“I’d like people to know that when you award a scholarship to one student, you’re also changing the lives of the whole family, who can feel secure that their daughter, or sister, is receiving the best education on offer,” Michelle said.
“It gave us a sense of peace and I know that, seeing the success Steph has had in her career, her St Pat’s education set her up for that success and continues to enrich her life.”
Stephanie, one of the few Australian artists professionally producing cyanotype photography, generously donated a framed work titled “Ashes of Creation” to the silent auction, which was sold to a delighted attendee.
