It has long been the Lismore fashionista’s dream to host the event entitled The Hall, The Ball, The Gown and The Music – which she describes as a “fashion parade with a difference”.

The celebration of 100 years worth of historic annual balls will also feature a love story between a young solider and a war nurse, which she said was “quite sentimental”.

Ms Nicol has been collecting vintage gowns for more than 60 years, and now owns one of the most significant collections in Australia. She has even purchased the Masonic Lodge in Lismore to house all her pieces.

The free event will be held at the Mechanics’ Institute on Saturday at 5pm.