Funds raised for helicopter

The inaugural April Fool's Day Ball was held recently by the local Umina Westpac branch to raise funds for the Westpac rescue helicopter.

The event was held on May 1 in the ballroom of the Terrigal Crown Plaza with the theme Hooray for Hollywood.

Local Westpac organiser Ms Jenny Irving said the event would be held annually and become the major fundraiser for the Westpac rescue helicopter.

She said it received the generous support of the peninsular business community.

"A huge thanks and round of applause must firstly go to Steve Atkins, CEO of, whose band of merry

She said doctors from Brisbane Waters Private Hospital attended the ball in strong numbers and participated in the auction on the night with vigor and enthusiasm," Ms Irving said.

Peninsula businesses supporting the event included Linda Dierikx, The Ocean Beach Hotel, B and M Quality Meats Umina, Subway Umina, South Street Fruit Shop, Carnival Cuts, Radford's Chemist, Umina Beach Flowers and Gifts.

Ms Irving said that more than $22,000 was raised on the night.

Ms Irving said preparations were already underway for next year's ball.

Press release, May 19 Julie Cerulli, Westpac Umina beach