On the evening of 7 December, St Columba’s Church in Braddon shimmered with warmth, anticipation, and the unmistakable magic that only the Andante Andante ABBA Choir can conjure. As the first harmonies rose and intertwined like threads of gold beneath the church’s gentle glow, guests found themselves enveloped in a spellbinding atmosphere, one in which music, compassion, and community merged into something truly extraordinary.
The night unfolded with elegance and joy, and through the generosity of all in attendance, a remarkable total of $1,550.00 was raised. Every dollar stands as a radiant beacon of hope, reaching directly into the lives of children and families confronted with the unimaginable reality of a childhood brain cancer diagnosis.
In one of the most moving moments of the evening, Cara stepped forward to speak, her words resonating with rare sincerity and quiet power. She illuminated how vital events such as this truly are, and how they create ripples of tangible impact, transforming financial contributions into hope, possibility, and the precious chance of a future for children bravely fighting brain cancer. Her message settled gently yet unmistakably into every heart, a reminder that compassion shared becomes an enduring force of change.
Cara then had the profound honour of presenting Jarrett with an award in recognition of his extraordinary achievement of raising over $100,000.00 as an individual, a testament to unwavering dedication, heartfelt purpose, and the enduring belief that one person can ignite monumental change. She also presented a special certificate to the Andante Andante ABBA Choir, acknowledging their exceptional support, dazzling musical talent, and boundless generosity.
The gratitude flowing through the church was immense and deeply genuine. To every guest who attended, and especially to those who joined us for the first time, thank you. Your presence added warmth and light to the evening, and we sincerely hope to welcome you again in 2026.
The choir, with their incomparable harmonies and vibrant ABBA spirit, deserve our deepest and most heartfelt appreciation. Their performance was magnificent, refined, joyful, and utterly uplifting. Each song rekindled memories, stirred emotion, and had guests singing along with unrestrained delight.
The evening’s hospitality was equally splendid. Tables were adorned with a delectable and abundant array of food and drink, far exceeding expectations and offering remarkable value for the modest twenty–dollar entry. Savoury and sweet delights mingled beautifully with animated conversation and a palpable sense of community spirit.
Excitement rippled through the room during the drawing of the lucky door prize, and the delighted winner left with a broad smile and a grateful heart. The raffle brought an additional sense of anticipation and joy. Our sincerest gratitude is extended to Blush Boutique for their generous contribution, and to the wonderful individuals who thoughtfully donated the remaining prizes, ensuring the raffle was a resounding success. The winning tickets were as follows: First Prize Yellow D33, Second Prize Yellow D19, Third Prize Red A16, and Fourth Prize Red A04.
As the final notes drifted into the soft evening air of St Columba’s, the room glowed with gratitude, camaraderie, and the shared understanding that together, we had created something far greater than an event; we had created hope.
With full and grateful hearts, we extend our deepest thanks to the choir, to Blush Boutique, to our generous prize donors, to every supporter and cherished guest who helped make this enchanting night possible, and most especially to Cara, whose wisdom, grace, and profoundly moving words touched every soul present.
May the music linger, may the memories inspire, and may the hope born from this evening continue to shine brightly into 2026 and far beyond.
