The Baradine Debutante Ball has been a resounding success, leaving the 14 debutantes and their partners with a lifetime of memories.

More than 300 hundred people attended the glittering gala fundraiser organised by the Baradine Hospital Auxiliary and held on Saturday, 9 April at the town’s memorial hall.

Led by flower girl Georgie Johnston, the debutantes, classically elegant in traditional white evening gowns, were presented to NSW Member of Parliament, Roy Butler and his wife, Jennie.

The official party comprised Evelyn Hampton (Baradine Multi-Purpose Health Centre), Cr Denis Todd (Warrumbungle Shire Council), Robyn Jones (vice-president United Hospitals Auxiliaries of NSW) and Denis McGlashan (president, Baradine Hospital Auxiliary). Lizzie Horder acted as master of ceremonies for the occasion.

Making their debut were: Claudia McConnaughty escorted by Orlando Bunner, Poppy Prouse escorted by Austin Hayman, Giaan Worrell escorted by Charlie Bonham, Halle Hinchcliffe escorted by Thomas Martin, Hannah Percival escorted by Daniel Percival, Dimity Leedham escorted by Ethan Burns, Alice Harris escorted by Bradley Worrell, Savannah Carey escorted by Thomas Purdy, Zali Hyde escorted by Nash Walker, Molly Murray escorted by Trent Biles, Sophie Andrews escorted by Malachi Troncoso, Valerie Dunn escorted by Brody Egan, Shannya Egan escorted by Travis Egan, and Adailia Troncoso escorted by Cooper McGlashan.

Roy Butler said the debutante ball is not only a fund-raising event, it is about preserving a great tradition.

“It represents an important transition in life from youth to adult; it is part of our culture and a marker for youth in communities,” Mr Butler said.

“It is heartening to see events like this coming back on the community-event calendar after such a long break due to the pandemic restrictions. Occasions like this create a positive mood in the community and are socially very beneficial to everyone.

“This event is all about the youth and it is wonderful to see so many stunning young women making their debut in this way; it is a rite of passage and an important and significant event for them all.”

Mr Butler commented on the improvements and upgrades completed at the Baradine Memorial Hall.

“In my view, the Baradine Memorial Hall is now one of the best in the electorate,” Mr Butler added.

“The improvements have maintained the historic nature of the building while providing improved facilities for the community to enjoy.

“I congratulate the Baradine and District Progress Association and the Warrumbungle Shire Council on all the work that has been done.

“An event like the debutante ball really makes the hall shine. It was designed for events like this - Baradine has done well.”

PHOTO: Fourteen young women escorted by their partners made their sparkling debut at the Baradine Debutante Ball held at the spectacularly illuminated Baradine Memorial Hall.