More than $50,000 raised at 2025 Mayor's Charity Gala Dinner
Published on 24 July 2025
The Campbelltown community has demonstrated its generous spirit once again after $52,632.70 was raised at this year’s Mayor’s Charity Gala Dinner to support local charity, The Formal Project.
More than 250 people attended the Classic Aussie Rock-themed evening hosted by Mayor of Campbelltown Darcy Lound at Ottimo House on Saturday 12 July.
The Formal Project is a community initiative that ensures every child can attend their year 6, 10 and 12 school formals each year.
Funds raised from the event will contribute to the delivery of a professionally finished change space at their new premises in Queen Street, Campbelltown. This change area plays a pivotal role in The Formal Project experience, with the new upgrades to include ornate mirrors, a red carpet and special lighting to ensure every young person who visits has a unique and memorable experience.
“The Formal Project are dedicated to their motto of ‘No child left behind’. Through the provision of clothing for school formals and job interviews, along with personal care items for young people in need, they are helping to provide inclusion and remove some of the barriers for participation in important life events,” Cr Lound said.
“When a young person walks through their door, their dedicated team do everything they can to help make a difference and create a memorable experience. This was one of the key reasons why I chose The Formal Project to be the beneficiary of my first Charity Gala Dinner,” he said.
“I want to thank all our local businesses and individuals who attended, or donated generously to this event. I am incredibly humbled by the amazing support from our Campbelltown community, who always step up to help those in need.”
This year’s Mayor’s Charity Gala Dinner was supported by Platinum sponsors Dahua Group. The Gold sponsor was Charter Hall, Silver sponsors included Cameron Brae Group, Marsdens Law Group and Catholic Cemeteries & Crematoria, and the Bronze sponsor was Maverick Supports.
“I am overwhelmed by the support for this year’s Mayor’s Charity Gala Dinner. The amount of money raised is incredible and will help make a huge difference for young people in Campbelltown,” The Formal Project’s founder/president Sam Oakes said.
“I just want to say a big thank you to Mayor of Campbelltown Darcy Lound, Campbelltown City Council and their amazing staff for their support in making this event become a reality. I also want to say a big thanks to the event’s fantastic sponsors and our local community,” she said.