As with many things over the last few years, the scourge of Covid forced the cancelation of the 2021 Civic Gala Ball, but now the iconic event is back.
This year’s ball was well attended, but with only three debutants and their partners it was a smaller than usual affair.
Amalie Howse 16, one of the debutants, said she only found out on the night of the ball that these events are a mainstay of country and regional areas and not big in the city areas.
“We have been preparing for three months, practising three dances with our partners and also speeches,” she said.
Her partner Ethan Attard is a 16-year-old apprentice diesel mechanic and said he was pretty proud to be her partner as it meant a lot to Amalie.
All debutants and their partners admitted being somewhat nervous about the evening.
Kaylain Hayes 18, said that she and partner Callum were a part of the event last year before it was cancelled and they were happy to finally be able to take part.
“Covid kind of messed up everything,” Kaylain said.
“But the Gala Ball is in my family, my aunty did it when she was a lot younger, and it is always something I have wanted to do since I was a little girl,” said the future medical student.
Jayda Pearce 18, likewise a part of last year’s event, said that she was also happy they were finally able to go forward, and indeed everyone at the event put their best foot forward in this welcome return to the Gala Ball floor.
