The Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) hosted its spectacular annual Gala Ball at Newcastle City Hall, on Saturday evening celebrating the glamour and charm of Italy.

The event brought together 260 guests from all walks of life, for an evening of elegance, entertainment, and generosity, raising $205,000 to support vital medical research.

Professor Frances Kay-Lambkin, who delivered the evening’s formal presentation, emphasised the importance of community support in driving medical breakthroughs. “Through research, we bring hope and healthier lives to our community.”

The funds raised from the Gala Ball will directly benefit HMRI’s ongoing research initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes locally, nationally, and globally. HMRI remains dedicated to its vision of creating the healthiest million people on the planet.

The funds raised at the HMRI Ball allow us to support health and medical research that transforms the health of our community through new treatments and models of patient care across areas of need in our community such as stroke, heart disease, diabetes, dementia, cancer, respiratory diseases, and pregnancy, mental health and wellbeing and new and emerging areas of need such as climate health.

“This annual event would not be possible without the continued support of our local and national businesses who each year, give generously in support of medical research at HMRI. It is incredible to have the support of so many wonderful and giving community members. In this very tough economy, we thank them for their support, generosity and willingness to assist us; our community remains the cornerstone and strength of HMRI. It’s what makes us so unique,” said Professor Frances Kay-Lambkin, CEO and Institute Director, HMRI.

The night was filled with memorable moments, including an incredibly generous silent auction, as well as a live auction by renowned auctioneer Gavan Reynolds.

Building on a tradition established at earlier balls, the integration of science and art is still crucial to our mission.

“The link between science and art is profound and multifaceted, intertwining creativity, innovation, and exploration. We continue to strengthen this link between HMRI and the arts community with a new initiative offering artists up to 30% commission to cover expenses for their donated work. This is a win-win for everyone,” said HMRI Foundation Chair and Board Member, Kristie Atkins.

“It is our way of saying thank you and that we appreciate you and your commitment to HMRI.”

HMRI extends its deepest gratitude to all sponsors, donors, and attendees whose contributions make a significant impact on advancing medical research.

Special thanks to beverage sponsors, table sponsors, and auction item donors for their unwavering support.

Our sponsors included:
Beverage Sponsors – Fourth Waves Wines, Scarborough Wine Co, De Iuliis Wines, Tulloch Wines and Peter Drayton Wines.
Raffle Sponsors – Williams the Jewellers
Table Sponsors – Walkom Real Estate, Markey Insurance Brokers, The Bloomfield Group, Port Waratah Coal Services and PKF
Event Sponsors – Newy Event Collective, Frost Flowers, Aaron Framed It, Big Bang Events, Scion Audio and Visuals, Pettigrew Family Funerals