The rain didn’t stop guests at the HMRI Ball from coming out to support medical research on Saturday night.

The rain didn’t stop guests at the HMRI Ball from coming out to support medical research on Saturday night.

The Newcastle Jockey Club was transformed into an ‘Sugar and Spice’ Indian-themed marquee adorned with colourful umbrellas and crystal chandeliers, and guests sipped champagne from the live roaming tables while dancing to legendary tribute band, The Beatnix.

HMRI Associate Director, Maureen Jack, said that the continuing support of the community at the Ball each year allows HMRI to deliver vital funding to Hunter medical researchers.

“This event is helping HMRI researchers to translate their scientific discoveries into new treatments for people right here in the Hunter and beyond,” she said.

Mrs Jack extended her warm thanks to HMRI sponsors, guests, donors and the organising committee who continue to generously support Hunter researchers.

“Having raised more than $106,000, I am amazed by the outstanding encouragement that we receive from so many local business and individuals who donate auction items or their services at the HMRI Ball each year.”

“A special thank you must also go to our major sponsors: Hunter Industrial Ceramics, peoplefusion, Markey Insurance Brokers and MRA Electrical & Automation Engineering.”

HMRI Director, Professor Michael Nilsson was extremely pleased by the generosity shown by the Hunter community at the Ball this year.

“Behind the glitz and the glamour, the HMRI Ball is a seriously important event for medical researchers and the community alike.”

“It’s wonderful that so many supporters are willing to donate towards medical research at a time when research funding is hard to come by.”

“It shows just how much the work of our researchers is valued, and I can assure you the feeling is mutual.”