Mosman Whales sell out Ladies Day fundraiser for fifth year5 Apr 2018

With a capacity of 350 women, the Mosman Whales Rugby Club’s annual Ladies Day fundraiser has already sold out, more than a month in advance of the 12 May event.

“It’s always a successful day,” says club president Michael Flude, adding that the club usually raises $10,000 to $11,000 each year.

“It sells out every year… Everybody talks about our Ladies Day.”

Ladies Day features a variety of spa-style amenities for only $50, including an open bar, gourmet lunch, live music, facials, hair styling, make-up and massage, all provided by local companies.

“Businesses donate their time to make the day special,” Michael says. “We want to make sure the ladies have a good time.”

Scheduled for the eve of Mother’s Day, it’s a popular gift idea as well. “We get a lot of mums and daughters,” Michael says.

Though Michael adds that he could think of several teammates who might enjoy a facial, the ladies tent is exclusively open to women attending the event, staff and volunteers, meaning there’s only one way to bring a male date.

“We auction five guys to the crowd,” Michael says. The men will act as escorts for the lucky winners at the post-game party.

All net proceeds from the event will be donated to SBCF. While the club is celebrating its 125th year in 2018, Ladies Day has been an annual fundraiser since 2013.

While it was a lot of work to coordinate the first year, he says it’s been easier from year to year, as the organisers know what needs to be done and the club has built partnerships with local businesses that support the event.