For people experiencing domestic violence (DV) lockdown is a dangerous time. So when one of the major fundraisers for the Ballina Women and Children’s Refuge live event, the Women With Heart comedy fundraiser featuring Steph Tisdell, had to be cancelled Refuge ambassador Mandy Nolan decided the show must go on.
‘I was worried the cancellation of the live show would put the wellbeing of women and children at risk,’ said Mandy.
‘Then I came up with an idea: move the show online – open up the capacity for ticket purchase beyond our region – to the whole country, and make this potentially an even bigger fundraiser!’
‘The benefit of doing this,’ Mandy said ‘is that under restrictions we were already sold out at 150 people. Now everyone can come! It’s good for the Refuge, good for the women and children who depend on it and its good for the wellbeing of people in lockdown looking for something to do that feels like “going out”.’
Women With Heart is the Comedy Gala, taking place on Thursday 16 September, that brings together some of the country’s funniest women to laugh it up and raise money for the Ballina Women and Children’s Refuge.
Mandy Nolan will host the gala which also stars in demand feature acts in the country: Ellen Briggs, the other half of Women Like Us, show stopping Kat Davidson, the musical comedy genius of Jenny Wynter and the wry wit of natural born story teller Fiona McGary. Alongside the gold star women of comedy are also three of the most exciting emerging talents on the comedy scene, Ting Lim, Vanessa Mitchell and Alex Hudson.
‘I have lived through domestic violence and I have come out the other side,’ said Mandy.
‘I know how important it is to have good support around you. To have a safe space where you can find yourself again and work out how you are going to go forward. The Ballina Women and Children’s Refuge is extremely important for women and children who are getting away from violence and reclaiming their lives!’
So mark Thursday 16 September as your big night out m– while you’re in! Women With Heart Comedy Gala – raising money for the Ballina Women and Childen’s Refuge. Tickets are $50. Link sent at 7pm with show 8pm. Pick up your tickets on ballinarsl.com.au.
