The Place One Group has hosted its inaugural “Black Tie in July” Gala—an unforgettable evening, blending community spirit with philanthropy to support The Forgotten Women.
The Place One Group has hosted its inaugural “Black Tie in July” Gala—an unforgettable evening, blending community spirit with philanthropy to support The Forgotten Women.
The event, which drew close to 300 guests, successfully raised $216,000 for the charity, exceeding expectations and marking a significant milestone in the fight against homelessness among women over the age of 55.
The gala featured nine live auction items, including the ultimate commission prize—a house sale commission-free, purchased for $42,500— and an original artwork by renowned artist Lisa Perruzza, which sold under the hammer for $20,000.
Paul Curtain, Director of The Place One Group, expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm for the event’s success, which was hosted at Victoria Park’s Marquee space.
“We’re deeply grateful for what we’ve achieved,” Mr Curtain said. “Raising nearly a quarter of a million dollars reflects the incredible generosity of our community and the importance of this cause. This support will go a long way in providing secure and affordable housing for older women in need.”
The Forgotten Women Project addresses a growing crisis: over 40,000 Queensland women over the age of 55 face financial hardship, with forecasts predicting this number could double by 2036.
These women often experience homelessness in ways that are less visible than their male counterparts, frequently staying with friends, living in cars, or otherwise ‘hiding’ their precarious situations.
“This issue is not just a statistic; it’s a reality affecting many lives,” Mr Curtain explained. “The Black Tie in July Gala is just the beginning. Our goal is to raise over one million dollars over the next five years. This event is a crucial first step towards achieving that target and making a lasting impact.”
The Place One Group team extends their heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to the evening’s success.
The support shown will play a pivotal role in transforming the lives of many older women and addressing one of Brisbane’s most pressing social issues.