Mayoral Prayer Breakfast proceeds aid Eva’s Place, Hear and Say

Toowoomba charities Hear and Say and Eva’s Place last night received a welcome funding boost from the proceeds of this year’s Mayoral Prayer Breakfast that was held at Rumours in May.

Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio presented cheques for $4,821.74 each to charity representatives.

“The generosity of Toowoomba residents and function sponsors saw this year’s Breakfast raise $9,643.48,” Mayor Antonio said.

“Eva’s Place offers professional support and practical assistance for young women who are facing an unintended, crisis or unsupported pregnancy. The Toowoomba branch of Hear and Say helps families who are looking for the best outcomes for children with hearing loss by teaching them to listen and speak.”

Eva’s Place Executive Director and co-founder Juliet Ballinger said the organisation was looking to upgrade office equipment and a phone system to connect its Dalby and Toowoomba offices.

“We wish to add a 1300 crisis line so clients are able to contact us for the price of a local call,” Mrs Ballinger said.

“Our plans also include starting a mentoring program for young dads. There are many advantages in supporting young fathers in addition to our existing services that are provided by professional counsellors and childbirth educators.”

Toowoomba Hear and Say speech pathologist Anna Warby, who is a specialist in auditory-verbal therapy, said the centre was committed to providing ongoing support for early intervention services to children with hearing loss in the Toowoomba region.

She said the centre was keen to expand its audiology services.

Mayor Antonio said he was pleased to continue the annual fundraiser that was initiated by former Toowoomba City Council Mayor Ross Miller to aid charitable organisations.

“Over the past 27 years the function has raised almost $300,000,” Mayor Antonio said.

“I thank all our supporters and suppliers, many of whom have backed the breakfast since its inception. I’m extremely grateful to them and all of our 2019 performers whose contributions ensure most of the funds raised can be presented to the chosen beneficiary.

“I also acknowledge Mayoral Prayer Breakfast organising committee chair Pastor Andrew Hoey, Senior Minister at Rangeville Community Church and his committee, the TAFE Queensland South West staff and their hospitality students and student volunteers from St Saviour’s and St Joseph’s College for their contributions.

“I look forward to another successful event in 2020.”

Captions:

Top: Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio presents 2019 Mayoral Prayer Breakfast proceeds to Toowoomba Hear and Say speech pathologist Anna Warby (left) and Eva’s Place Executive Director and co-founder Juliet Ballinger.

Hear and Say representatives Meredith McMeekin (left), Trinette Walmsley, Anna Warby (fourth from left) and Jess Tattam accept Breakfast proceeds from Mayor Paul Antonio (centre) and Mayoral Prayer Breakfast organising committee chair Pastor Andrew Hoey.

Bottom: Mayor Paul Antonio (left) and Pastor Andrew Hoey (right) present Breakfast proceeds to Eva’s Place Executive Director and co-founder Juliet Ballinger, Rodney Ballinger (co-founder), Helen Louden, Bruce Louden and Susan Van Der Merwe.