Lockhart River youth are putting together the perfect outfit for the community’s inaugural NAIDOC Ball, which will be held on 6 July. Photo: Supplied.
A Brisbane charity providing formalwear to those in need will be the Fairy Godmother of Lockhart River’s inaugural NAIDOC Ball on 6 July.
Formally Ever After previously provided the Aurukun community with their NAIDOC Ball gowns and suits in 2023, and has now done the same for Lockhart River’s youth.
Charity founder Tammy Robinson said after starting the organisation in Logan in 2019, its reach had spread exponentially.
“It’s great knowing through our Logan-based charity, we’ve grown so much that we can help out remote communities,” she said.
“After seeing Aurukun and the impact first-hand in 2023, I really wanted to be able to connect with more remote communities.
“I saw the joy, excitement, confidence, [and] the pride in each person; to be able to gift that again to another community is incredible.”
Lockhart River’s Puuya Foundation reached out to the charity after hearing about their role in the Aurukun ball.
“I was asked to help with [around] 70 students,” Ms Robinson said.
“I try and put in a good mix of colours, styles and sizes so we can cover all.
“To be a part of something like this is such an honour for me – to know that this community will be able to have what they need.”
Puuya Foundation chief executive officer Emma Schuh said the youth were spoiled for choice and had excitedly chosen their outfits for Saturday night’s gala.
“We as a foundation are very excited to put on an event like this for our youth, who have worked very hard despite many of the challenges they face in Cape York,” Ms Schuh said.
“The kids have been coming in droves to try on their dresses and suits.
“We’ve got so many dresses and we’d like to thank everyone who’s contributed.”
Ms Robinson hoped that like Aurukun, Lockhart River could also start its own formalwear hire system with the donations.
“Everything can be washed or handwashed, and they can store it somewhere safe until it’s needed,” she said.
“That way, hopefully, it can be recycled over and over, and each year I can just top up what they need extra.
“We can all make a difference to others if we want to; my main motto is to show our young people that kindness is free.”
