Scope Sparkles at Diamond Anniversary Ball

Diamonds, an opera extravaganza and a visit from the Melbourne Lord Mayor were all part of the glitz and glamour at Scope’s 60th anniversary ball on Saturday, May 23.

The Scope Diamond Anniversary Ball, held at the exclusive Regent Theatre’s Plaza Ballroom, celebrated the organisation’s historic achievements and raised about $80,000 for its respite services.

Radio and television wit John Blackman hosted the stylish event attended by 400 guests, including Lord Mayor Robert Doyle with partner Emma Page-Campbell, Whittlesea Mayor Mary Lalios, Scope CEO Diana Heggie and President Jennifer Fitzgerald.

While the parents of a Scope client, Paul and Helen Struc, shared with the audience how respite helped them to support their adult child with a disability.

They said their 31-year-old daughter’s respite access gave them the much needed opportunity to refresh and reenergise, enabling them the capacity to continue supporting her at home.

``Respite is our lifeline,’’ Mrs Struc said.

Donated prizes and auctions provided an impressive list of luxuries.

But it was the one-carat diamond raffle draw, won by Natasha Bowness, that created a buzz among the female guests.

The eye-catching entertainment included an operatic duet by Mary-Louise Santa and Lynlee Williams, a breathtaking trapeze tissue act, ballet dancers and Soul Beats.

Scope would like to especially thank Diamond Anniversary Ball major partners City of Whittlesea and Westfield for their valued support.

To see photos of the event visit: http://www.photoeventz.com.au/scope2009/webimages/index.html