THE debutante ball lives on, thanks to the Shoalhaven Bravehearts regional co-ordinator Wendy Woodward.
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A debutante ball is steeped in tradition as a step into adulthood, but the Shoalhaven Bravehearts Debutante Ball is more than that, raising awareness and funds for child protection.
Ms Woodward said the eight high school girls, aged between 16 and 17, involved in the ball this year were lucky enough to each be given a designer gown worth between $3000 and $4000.
“The girls are all so excited and they will get to keep their chosen gown,” she said.
“This debutante ball is really unique with the donation of the gowns from a Sydney designer [who wanted to remain anonymous].
“The ball began two years ago and been a great success as an awareness campaign.”
The girls are from different local high schools including Bomaderry, Vincentia and Shoalhaven and will be joined by young men who will partner them on the night.
“It is a traditional debutante ball – a coming of age for young women … the girls have had dancing lessons with their partners and will also learn etiquette,” Ms Woodward said.
“It is an opportunity for the girls to learn new skills which will last them a lifetime and enable them to meet new friends and have the chance to dress elegantly.
“Each girl will also be given a pearl pendant which has been strung on a purple necklace to represent Bravehearts.”
Ms Woodward said one lucky raffle winner would receive a beautiful pearl necklace worth $500 at the ball with all proceeds going towards the foundation.
Bomaderry High School student Ebonie Lynch said when she heard about the ball in class she and her friend Ruby Hoye jumped at the idea.
“It just seemed like a great idea to be part of something so fun and elegant,” she said.
Shoalhaven High School student Hannah Hedger said she loved the idea of dressing up in a white dress and feeling special for a night.
“It’s a lot of fun and a great chance to meet new people,” she said.
The Shoalhaven Bravehearts Debutante Ball is on Saturday, October 11 at Worrigee House.
Tickets are available at Nowra’s Optus shop at 1/123 Junction Street, Nowra.