The Orchard Orange: White Tie Ball raised more than $120k for domestic violence

A country ball has raised more than $120,000 towards a purpose-built refuge to assist women and children who have experienced domestic and family violence.

A country community has raised more than $120,000 for accommodation to assist women and children escaping domestic and family violence.

Housing Plus celebrated their annual White Tie Ball on Saturday, which included 360 guests at the Orange Ex-Services Club and raised more than $120,000 in support of The Orchard Orange.

Attendees enjoyed a three-course meal, charity auction, raffles, and dancing to local band Squid Munchies.

Housing Plus’ engagement and fundraising co-ordinator Rochelle Monaghan said the generosity of the community allowed the organisation to “provide the essentials” families who escaped domestic and family violence needed.

The non-government funded refuge was established in 2020 and has helped around 240 women and children within four years with either accommodation or access to services.

The White Tie Ball raised more than $120,000 for The Orchard in Orange.

Ms Monaghan said because the facility operated without government funding, The Orchard relied on community-driven events like White Tie Ball for support.

“That’s why it’s important that we have successful events, so we can continue delivering services and supporting women that are in need,” she said.

The Orchard in Dubbo opened in September. Picture: iStock

She said the ball was an annual event which had been operating for the past seven years.

This year’s ball far exceeded the 2023 total of $93,000, marking a significant milestone in the event’s history.

“It’s been amazing that we’ve been able to do this for the Orange Orchard and our next fundraising event for Dubbo will be Dig Deep for The Orchard Dubbo,” Ms Monaghan said.

She said the facility in Dubbo was funded by the government, however Housing Plus were required to raise money for prevention programs and other services.

The Orchard also operates in Bathurst.