Who Says Christmas Only Comes Once a Year?
What a fantastic night!
Our Christmas in July Fundraiser was filled with laughter, fun and community spirit. Thanks to the amazing generosity of everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, sponsored and supported the event, we are thrilled to share that we raised an incredible $8,000 for Volunteers for Palliative Care.
A special thank you to our Patron, Pennie Kearney, who delivered a heartfelt speech that reminded us of how lucky Maitland is, having a Palliative Care Volunteer service to lean on.
The day was made even more enjoyable by the energetic and humorous Pat Howard, who kept everyone entertained and brought plenty of laughter to the room.
We were also thrilled to welcome a very special guest from the North Pole. Santa Claus made an appearance, spreading Christmas cheer and proving that even in July, he’s still working overtime.
Guests embraced the Christmas spirit with some truly outstanding costumes and fancy-dress creations. The judges had the difficult task of choosing winners from a field of wonderfully creative entries. Congratulations to our dress-up champions:
- Buddy the Elf – Russel Walls
- Christmas Angel – Jenny Cridland
- Baubled Christmas Tree – Gabrielle Walls
Our Christmas trivia challenge and Heads and Tails game had everyone joining in, with lots of laughs and friendly competition.
The auction was another highlight of the day, with guests enthusiastically bidding on a fantastic range of items. Thank you to everyone who donated, bid and supported the auction. Your generosity helped us achieve such a wonderful fundraising result.
We would also like to sincerely thank our event sponsors. Your support played an important part in making the event such a success, and we are incredibly grateful.
Most importantly, thank you to our community. Your ongoing support means so much and helps us continue providing care and support to those who need it most.
You can see all the photos taken on the night here
Before we pack away the tinsel, untangle the fairy lights and send Santa back into hibernation for another year, make sure you save the date for our next Christmas in July Fundraiser on Saturday, 24 July 2027.
We can’t wait to do it all again!
2026 Christmas in July Sponsors
A & K MacKay Building Company Pty Ltd, Darrell Lea Maitland, Easts Leisure and Golf Club, East Maitland Conveyancing, Newcastle Spiral Spuds, East Maitland Rotary, Scottys Cinema Raymond Terrance, Hunter Valley Wildlife Park, Oakvale Wildlife, Amy O’Donnell Art, Scented Sensations, Club Maitland City, Endota Spa Greenhills, Donarch Fine Chocolate, The Deck Cafe, Flowerpower Ashtonfield, Bunnings Maitland, Blooms the Chemist Greenhills