FORMER Leeton Belles of the Ball have recalled what it’s like to take home the coveted title.
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This year’s Rotary Belle of the Ball will be held on July 27 and, with that in mind, The Irrigator has spoken with several former winners of the title to see what they recall of their experience.
Robyn Locke (nee Fitzsimon) was named the Belle of the Ball in 1986, a title she said felt embarrassing at the time.
Partnered by Paul McGregor on the night, she said she still had her sash and dress at home.
“I was a little bit embarrassed because I didn’t think, and I still don’t think, they should choose just one winner,” Mrs Locke said.
“In saying that, the balls are a lovely tradition. I remember having a great time and it’s lovely to see that it’s still going.”
This year there will be 27 young women and their partners taking part in the Belle of the Ball, which is the Rotary Club of Leeton’s largest annual fundraiser.
Bronwyn Piccolo (nee Tarlinton) is another former belle, having taking out the honour in 1981.
“David Breed was my partner … I remember being in shock a little bit when it was announced I had won,” she said.
“I remember hearing my mum yelling out because she was so excited.
“I’m so glad it’s something that still happens. It’s a lot of fun to take part with all of your friends and you get to wear your dress again.”
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Every year money raised from the ball goes back to Rotary, which is then delivered back into the community through various projects and grants.
Organiser Roz Thompson said the judges had a tough job each time trying to choose one girl to be named the Belle of the Ball.
“They always find it so hard … the girls and their partners always look so stunning,” she said.
“I say it every year, but we’ve got such a fantastic bunch of young men and women taking part.
“It says a lot about the young people taking part.”
Narelle Pannowitz, who was partnered by Joey Longford, was named Belle of the Ball in 1989. “For me I grew up on a farm, so it was great to have this night where you could dress up and have fun with all of your friends,” she said.
“I couldn’t believe it when they called out my name. I was a bit of a controversial winner back them because I was taller than my partner and he was Aboriginal.
“I think it’s fantastic the tradition is still going.
“At that age there still isn’t a lot to do with your friends, so it’s a nice opportunity to dress up and enjoy yourself.”
This year’s event will be held at the Mia Function Centre on July 27.
Tickets are available for $45 per person at Amato Real Estate and the Leeton Newsagency.
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