Taste of Celebrity in Geraldton

Mid West Charity Begins at Home (MWCBH) is bringing a taste of celebrity to Geraldton by securing TV star Tom Williams to host its fundraising Gala Dinner in November.

Mid West Charity Begins at Home (MWCBH) is bringing a taste of celebrity to Geraldton by securing TV star Tom Williams to host its fundraising Gala Dinner in November.

MWCBH spokeswoman Anne-Maree Hopkinson said securing someone of Mr Williams’ calibre helped lend the event the ‘wow’ appeal organisers were after.

“The Gala Dinner has become something of a must-attend event on Geraldton’s social calendar,” Mrs Hopkinson said.

“Guests go all out in ball dresses, make up and jewels – and we invest huge amounts of efforts in decorating the venue in a sumptuous style – so having someone with Tom’s star status fits in really well.

“Tom not only has the high-level recognition we’re after, but also seems a nice, down-to-earth guy – a tradie-cum-celeb who can banter with the crowd in Geraldton.”

Mr Williams said the charity touched a chord with him, for its emphasis on volunteering and community.

“I think we share the same values, compassion, hope, love and understanding,” he said.

“As Australians we are always helping out those in need, it’s one of our best characteristics. We don’t want to be thanked or made a fuss over, we just want to help.”

Mr Williams said the cause was particularly close to his heart, as his own father died of cancer when he was 19.

“He had a world of love and support around him for the entire time he was suffering,” he said.

“I think about him every day and I’m sure he is keeping an eye out for me and my young family. I know he would be proud to see me travelling over to the other side of the country to lend a hand.”

The MWCBH Gala Dinner on November 7 attracts the regions movers and shakers to raise money to help ease the financial strain for Mid West people with a serious illness.

The charity has so far provided financial relief to 130 Mid West families battling their most difficult times. 

Mr Williams said he was also particularly looking forward to visiting Geraldton.

“I was in Gero last year - I’d paddled my surf ski up from Freo,” he said.

“Bloody long way but so beautiful. I love the west and always have fun there.”

Any Mid West person with a serious illness and financial difficulties can apply for funding through MWCBH. Find out more by visiting the website and filling in an application form (www.charitybeginsathome.org.au).

Businesses interested in finding out more about being a sponsor for the Gala Dinner should email info@charitybeginsathome.org.au.