Yarram and District Health Service (YDHS) has raised more than $20,000 for its palliative care room upgrades thanks to its recent inaugural gala event.

Locals donned their tuxedos and black tie attire for a night of glamour on Saturday 18 October 2025 that saw many give generously.

According to YDHS CEO Paul Head, the success of the inaugural Gala event is testament to the connection YDHS has to so many within the local community.

“I’m incredibly proud to share that we raised an outstanding $22,000 for our palliative care room upgrades,” Mr Head said.

“This result reflects not just the generosity, but the spirit of our local community that stands behind compassionate, quality care at the most important stage of life”.

“The funds raised will directly support the continued upgrade of our state-of-the-art palliative care facilities, ensuring that local families have access to the dignity, comfort and the support they deserve, close to home.”

Throughout the course of the evening, a number of generously donated items were auctioned off including a signed 2025 Brisbane Lions jersey.

“The night would not have been possible without the incredible generosity of so many businesses, sponsors and donors from within the region, as well as those from further afield that have a connection to our wonderful health service and truly believe in the importance of providing the best palliative care,” Mr Head said.

“In addition, a heartfelt thank you goes out to our Gala Committee, whose creativity and persistence turned a simple idea into an unforgettable event, and to our attendees who made the evening a night to remember”.

More than 100 people attended the event, including many current and former staff of YDHS as well as those with a strong connection to the health service, which has more than 100 years of history.

“This night was more than a fundraiser; it was a statement of who we are as a community and a small rural health service and proves what can be achieved when vision and community come together,” Mr Head said.