Winter Ball to melt ice and forge friendships

This is the club’s first Winter Ball, and organisers are embracing a unique approach that truly embodies the phrase ‘the more, the merrier’.

“It can be very lonely and isolating moving to a small town, not knowing anyone,” organiser Adrian Salter said.

“When you come to a small town as a professional or for work, it can be really difficult to get to know people outside that work or job.

“This is a great chance to get to know people, and an excuse to catch up with friends from out of town.”

Couples and locals are encouraged to bring along a single friend.

They could be new to the area, lived there for a while, or even from Melbourne or elsewhere.

So, if you see a new face around town, don’t be shy — say hello.

“We want people to invite their friends for a weekend here, to go to the ball, do a few things locally, so they can see how nice it is. See the house prices, the jobs and all the opportunities available,” Mr Salter said.

The group is also raising funds for its Post-Secondary Scholarship Program, to support local students pursuing further education in Melbourne.

This is the inaugural year of the scholarship in partnership with YAL, a youth support organisation dedicated to accessible education for young Australians.

“Part of what we are trying to do is help young people get a foot up in their further study,” Mr Salter said.

“It can be hard for kids to leave town to pursue their education, so this scholarship will help out a kid to go to the city.”

Tickets are $80 per person, or $200 for couples bringing a third friend.

Tickets include a delightful two-course meal and live band entertainment. There will also be exciting activities to encourage mingling.

The dress code is black tie, and tickets are available at the Grand Central Hotel.