Moree Ball special guest made possible through Inland Rail support
The Young Aggies Moree Gold Rush Ball, held in September, was made even more special by guest speaker and Australia’s Local Hero for 2022, Shanna Whan, whose involvement was supported by the Inland Rail Community Sponsorships and Donations program.
November 2, 2022
Ms Whan was named Australia’s Local Hero in this year’s Australia Day Awards due to her tireless work in rural communities dealing with alcohol misuse.
Through her charity Sober in the Country, Shanna advocates that it’s #OK2SAYNO to alcohol. She also encourages people to respect and support those who choose not to drink, especially in rural settings where alcohol use is deeply entrenched in everyday culture.
Fresh from her trip to attend the Queen’s memorial service in the UK, the Narrabri local spoke passionately about her own experiences with alcohol and how just starting the conversation can change and save a life.
Felicity Taylor, Young Aggies Chairperson and Ball organiser, was pleased the event helped to highlight this important topic.
“Shanna provided an excellent keynote speech. We are so grateful that, with Inland Rail’s help, we could share this message across 450 guests, mostly locals but also many who had travelled great distances to be there.
“We are thrilled with the outcome of this year’s event and Shanna’s presence was a highlight for us all.”
Young Aggies is a volunteer organisation based in Moree that provides scholarships, networking and professional development opportunities for young people in the region.
This year’s Gold Rush Ball raised more than $65 000 on behalf of the Young Aggies Moree Rural Scholarship Fund as well as the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
Inland Rail is proud to have been involved in making this annual event a success and ultimately support the wellbeing and prosperity of the Moree community.
We encourage all local charities and not-for-profit organisations to apply for the next round of funding.
Check the Community Sponsorships and Donations program page for more information.
Any queries, please phone 1800 732 761 or email ircommunitysponsorships@artc.com.au.
IMAGE: Shanna Whan speaking at the Young Aggies Moree Gold Rush Ball.
