The Soiree in the Hangar was back for its annual night of glamour on Saturday, raising funds for LifeFlight’s free trauma training program, First Minutes Matter.
Raising a record-breaking $125,500, the night showcased the generosity of the Wide Bay-Burnett community and beyond.
Around 250 guests stepped into the LifeFlight hangar for a night of dancing, dining, inspirational patient stories and community connections.
Attendees were treated to roaming delicacies and premium live entertainment by Derek F Smith.
A raffle on the night offered three holiday prizes, including a coastal getaway to Byron Bay, a Brisbane city escape and a local glamping experience at Splitters Farm.
Guests tried their luck in the Balloon Pop, with a 1-in-150 chance of winning a Warner’s Fine Jewellery Classique Gold Watch, plus surprise vouchers hidden in every balloon.
Courtney Stallard was the lucky winner of the Black Opal and Swiss Quartz watch, valued at $10,350.
From eight tickets to a corporate box for the Brisbane Lions v Port Adelaide clash to a Lake Monduran fishing charter and a coastal Mooloolaba escape, the live auction featured a diverse mix of sought-after prizes. Handcrafted furniture was also among the standout items.
LifeFlight Wide Bay-Burnett Regional Advisory Committee (RAC) chair Dale Rethamel said he couldn’t believe the outpouring of support from the community.
“Time and time again, our supporters have come through for LifeFlight and this year is no different,” he said.
“The Wide Bay-Burnett community has once again delivered with tickets selling out for our Soiree in the Hangar event.”
Mr Rethamel said the money raised would go towards LifeFlight’s trauma training workshops across the region.
“These workshops teach participants lifesaving skills that can help in a medical emergency before help arrives,” he said.
“It is thanks to our supporting partner, sponsors and our amazing attendees who make this event the success it is tonight.”
Guests heard about Gin Gin local and LifeFlight patient Ava St Henry’s serious campdrafting injury, sustained after the teenager was flung into a steel fence and crushed by her horse.
Ava defied medical odds and has since made a full recovery, returning to riding.
First Minutes Matter teaches participants practical life-saving skills to help in an emergency. Attendees learn how to treat snake bites, bleeds, burns and more.
To find out more about First Minutes Matter, visit firstminutesmatter.org.au.
