The Glitz and Glam Gala certainly lived up to its name at the Ballroom Sale on September 13.
The gala was organised by Defining Beauty Through Breast Cancer, a charity supporting young women with a cancer diagnosis. Thanks to the community, the event raised over $16,000.
Established in 2019 by Sale local Jo Francis, who herself has had three cancer diagnoses (two breast cancer and one melanoma) Defining Beauty began with the aim to specifically support young women (aged around 20 to 45) and their specific needs that only a young woman with cancer understands.
The glamorous gala at the stunning ballroom at Victoria Hall, Sale, was an incredible night of entertainment, laughter, support, friendship, tears and plenty of dancing. Guests were serenaded as they entered the ballroom by the electric cello, performed by Melbourne-based classically trained cellist Annette Eldridge. Ms Eldridge also performed a set with beats by ash, the DJ for the night.
Toni McKay and Kylie Board spoke of their own personal cancer journeys, with the emotions in the room reiterating why they were all there.
The event wasn’t just to celebrate Defining Beauty’s past and present, but also to look to the future. Ms Francis announced the charity would be supporting not just breast cancer, but all cancers affecting young women. She said this change would allow Defining Beauty to support even more women trying to navigate the most difficult time in their lives.
“We have been successful in grants and partnering with some incredible organisations including Uniting Vic/Tas, John Leslie Foundation and Phillips Foundation enabling us to support our community in ways I never imagined,” Ms Francis said.
“We are not only able to support these women but are able to provide support for their carers which is a game changer in this space. We must never forget those that look after us too.
“In 2025, we will be rolling out our Brave Beauty Brunches starting in Sale and Gippsland where women can come and connect with one another, listen to a guest speaker in the cancer space and spend time with others who understand in some of our wonderful local establishments.”
Ms Francis described the night as extraordinarily special.
“I never thought I would be able to expand the way we have and be able to help the greater cancer community,” she said.
“Announcing it in my home town was important to me as they have always been such a support for this charity. They have also been so wonderful to my family when mum and I both had our cancer diagnosis, the Sale and surrounding areas are extremely special in the way they wrap their arms around those that need it. I feel blessed to be a part of it.”
Over the past six years Defining Beauty has distributed more than 400 care packs all over Australia filled with tried and tested products that made other women who have walked a similar road feel seen and heard and special. It has mentored many women and supported thousands over this period through online resources.
In October, Defining Beauty will host its first Brave Beauties Retreat in Cape Schanck where Gippsland women will be treated to two days of luxury, respite, information sessions and some very special surprises to help them live well after cancer.
“We are always looking for sponsorship and business collaborations in order to continue what we do. If there is anyone in the broader community interested please contact us through Facebook, Instagram or website www.bravebeauties.com.au,” Ms Francis said.
“And please reach out if you or someone you know that may need some support through our programs.”
