But, the real joy from the evening was only just beginning.

Last year’s event raised money for three beneficiaries – Endeavour Group Australia Muswellbrook, integrated living and Muswellbrook Rotary.

Endeavour Group Australia regional coordinator Sally Pereira said the result was amazing.

“Last year we received $4,200 and the guys went for a trip to Dubbo with that money,” she said.

“So that covered accommodation, fuel, staff, and all the activities.”

A highlight from the trip was a visit to Dubbo’s Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

“It also was exciting because some of our guys had never been away before,” Mrs Pereira said.

“Some of the parents were so excited.

“I actually had one parent that got quite emotional because she’d never had respite from her child before.

“Which it’s not a bad thing, but they’d never had a break.

“Some of our families can’t afford to have holidays or send their kids on holidays so it was really, really exciting.

“The joy was amazing.”

The Rotary Ball will return on Saturday, August 19, at Muswellbrook RSL Club.

The fun will begin at 6.30pm, and Mrs Pereira hopes to encourage the community to get behind the event.

“I’ve asked the guys what they want to do if we raise a bit more money and another trip is on the cards,” she said.

“Rather than spending it on resources like arts and crafts, I think a trip away is more beneficial to their learning and also gaining skills of being on holidays.”

Mrs Pereira would like to thank Muswellbrook Rotary for including them as beneficiaries again.

“I’d just like to ask the community to get behind it and support it,” she said.

“They’re all really worthy causes.”

Tickets to the 2017 Rotary Ball are $110 per person, and include a three-course meal, bubbly on arrival, and entertainment.

For more information, or to buy tickets, visit www.huntervalleytickets.com.au