Coffs Harbour Surf Lifesaving Club 2011 fundraiser: flashback gallery

To this day people talk about the 2011 party at the Coffs Harbour surf club where guests made merry until 2am. See who was caught on camera that night.

Coffs Harbour has many legends, and none more so than the late Peter ‘Tubby’ Wallace who went above and beyond for the surf lifesaving movement.

A life member of the Coffs Harbour club, Mr Wallace was so respected that his dedication gave rise to a series of fundraisers.

One such event was an Arabian-themed night at the surf club in 2011, and our gallery features photos from that shindig.

Tubby’s White Whales Trust was founded in 2009 by Gabrielle and Danielle Wallace, and its purpose was to ensure the ongoing viability of the Coffs surf club.

Peter ‘Tubby’ Wallace and the party of the ages

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The Arabian night fundraiser was a huge success with nearly all 220 guests channelling their Middle Eastern selves through fancy dress.

In four days of tireless setting up, an authentic Arabian atmosphere was created with colourful, low-hanging fabric giving a cave-like feel, eclectic decorations, lavish velvet bolts, brasswear, hookahs, countless candles, scattered Ottomans and cushions.

A whopping $39,000 was raised and fundraising co-ordinator Sam Wardman said people were amazed when they walked in.

“You wouldn’t have known you were in the surf club,” Ms Wardman said.

“It was a well-enjoyed night and many people were still there at 2am.”

Mr Wallace had a decorated involvement with surf lifesaving, including a 50-year service award and a 50-year national patrol service award.

He was awarded life membership in 2005-06, and was also a member of the Torquay club from 1950-1959.