Ray White Seeking Generous Donors

Ray White Surfers Paradise Group is seeking items for an auction of a very different kind ahead of its annual Muscular Dystrophy Charity Ball on September 3.

While the group is renowned for its property auction prowess, it will use that expertise at the ball to auction a range of sumptuous goodies ranging from holidays to gift packs.

The black tie event, now in its 23rd year, is moving to Jupiters Gold Coast this year to cope with the growth in ball attendees, which has ballooned from 500 to 780 guests.

RWSP CEO Andrew Bell said while generous donations of holidays, accommodation, jewellery and artwork already had been made, more items were needed to maximise the night’s potential.

“We would love more big or small items to auction as they all boost the bottom line for Muscular Dystrophy Queensland, for which we have raised more than $2.8 million since the ball started in the 1990s,” he said.

“Sponsorship of this kind is not only a kind, charitable initiative for a business; it also puts their brand right in front of some of the Gold Coast’s highest wealth individuals and leading companies.”

Donated items are auctioned privately, publicly or in a silent arena during the evening while others are up for grabs by raffle.

The group has previously auctioned European and Asian holidays, thrill-seeking experiences, corporate donations of goods and services and even use of personal holiday homes.

Mr Bell said the 2016 event was on course to be the biggest and best yet.

“This is the fastest selling ball in its 23 year history,” he said.

“There is real excitement about the new location and the event’s growth, and we would love for that to translate into getting close to the $3 million mark in total funds raised.”

In line with the ball’s move to Jupiters, and to cater to guests’ budgets, tables are now categorised as bronze, silver and gold.

While the gold tables are sold out, a small number of other tables remain available.

The stellar night will feature entertainment from Australian singer and songwriter Rikki-Lee.

Funds raised are split evenly between care for Muscular Dystrophy sufferers and to research and treatment.

Muscular dystrophy is a genetic neuromuscular disorder which occurs in a range of different forms and progressively deteriorates muscle strength and function. It has the potential to affect people of all ages but the most aggressive forms have their onset from birth to early childhood, shortening their life expectancy to early adulthood.

Andrew and Greg Bell are vice-patrons and honorary Life Members of the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Queensland and are also long-term philanthropists, supporting causes such as Surfers Paradise Surf Club and Rescue Helicopter.

The Ray White Surfers Paradise Muscular Dystrophy Charity Ball is on Saturday, September 3  at Jupiters Gold Coast, Broadbeach from 7pm.

To donate contact Selena Carson at s.carson@rwsp.net or for more information on the night visit the Event website here.