The 17th of May 2025 wasn't just our 97th birthday. It was also an evening of connection and celebration, as over 300 guests raised valuable funds at the 2025 Flying Doctor Ball in Broken Hill's Civic Centre.
Hosted by the dedicated Broken Hill Women's Auxiliary (BHWA), the fundraising gala featured live music, a raffle with $2000 up for grabs, and live and silent auctions.
One of the most highly sought-after auction prizes was the ‘virtual pig’ that fetched $4,000 after not one, but two rounds of auctions! Apparently, the 'virtual pig' is part of the Ball's lore — after a previous winner couldn't transport it back home, a butcher offered a pig in voucher form. It's now regarded as the prize to get, and winners often re-bid it to help raise as much as possible for us.
More than just a celebration, BHWA's Flying Doctor Ball raises much-needed funds for our services in and around Broken Hill.
Since the BHWA's inception in 1989, they've raised almost $2.5M for us. Most recently, the BHWA's donation has supported upgrading the Broken Hill Wellbeing Place, medical equipment, including portable ultrasound machines and aviation equipment such as a replacement pilot seat.
In addition to the Ball, you'll see the BHWA's iconic Christmas pudding sales during the festive period. Just this April, BHWA's President Marg Symes finished her final walk, raising over $75,000 since her first walk in 2021.
Marg Symes said, “Every dollar raised through the Ball directly helps us support the RFDS. 24 hours a day, 365 days a year – the RFDS is always there when you need them. The Flying Doctor Ball is our way of giving back, and the incredible generosity we saw this year shows just how deeply our community values them.”
We were touched by the amazing support of the BHWA, our own people, and our community in raising vital funds for us. Thank you to everyone who generously contributed to the Ball's success. You truly made it a night to remember.
