Recycled fashion has never looked so glamorous as during a charity fundraiser in Yarraville earlier this month.
The Dragon Awakens – Zhuzhed Up, a benefit fashion show and disco, was held at the Yarraville Club to raise funds for Philippines-based charity the Bai Foundation which supports people experiencing mental health or well being concerns.
Guests of honour on the night included the Consul General of the Philippine Consulate Maria Lourdes Salcedo who also spoke and said how much she had enjoyed the “heartfelt, interesting show”, congratulating organiser Gina Parker.
Due to unforeseen circumstances Maribyrnong mayor Cr Cuc Lam was unable to attend.
However Cr Lam did send a message saying that she was “incredibly proud to be a part of such a culturally diverse community where neighbours support and help each other thrive“.
“In Maribyrnong we are not only people from multiple cultures, we are also people whose thoughts and opinions are shaped by our different life experiences. We are fortunate to have a diverse community made up of passionate locals like Gina Parker who generously volunteer their time for the betterment of others.“
Ms Parker said the extraordinary night was everything she hoped for when she first considered the concept of a recycled fashion show for charity.
“We held an auction for a painting donated by Richard Manning of Geelong. We also sold raffle tickets and the major prize was the Samsung flat screen TV along with other wonderful prizes from donors,” she said.
“Altogether we raised $3,700 and the director of Bai Foundation, Lito Gruet, was so thankful as this is worth a six figure amount by the time it’s converted to pesos.“
