So much so they have an annual ball to raise money for local charities. This year the Ballarat District Nursing and Healthcare will benefit from an auction they are holding.

Jenna Toohey from the Gordon Football and Netball Club says the members have been looking for ways to give back to the community.

“From our perspective, we generally hold an annual event, whether it be a ball or something similar to that.

“We had an idea from one of our sponsors, Peter Stephens Hyundai, of running a charity ball. They had done something similar last year with a cricket club to raise funds for the BDNH group, and it proved to be quite a success.

“We’ve worked closely with a couple of people from BDNH group very closely and they are keen for it to work.

Jenna says guests will have a sit-down function with a two-course meal.  Throughout the night there will be door prizes and raffles, with all the funds going to BDNH group.

“The big drawcard is the charity auction. We’ve got 25 items, all one-of-a-kind items to be auctioned off during the night.

“There’s a framed print of Black Caviar; there’s some AFL material, Joel Selwood has signed a jumper, there are some signed football boots. Shaun Smith has signed a cricket bat, and there’s an Anzac commemorative piece… a lot of sporting memorabilia and some really interesting things.

“We have had quite a successful start to the netball season, and of course the boys made the grand final last year, so there’s a very positive feel around the club.”

Jenna says the Ballarat Golf Club have been very helpful in the organisation and in getting us the venue to host the auction.

The Gordon Football and Netball Club Charity Auction will be held this weekend. Cost is $110 a ticket, which includes a two-course meal and all beverages. All funds raised from the auction will be donated to Ballarat District Nursing and Health. Please contact Jenna Toohey 0409 165 935 or Max Hamond 0428 907 669.