The Margaret River Theatre Group brought the spirit of Christmas to town for the first day of summer on Friday.
More than 100 revellers and theatre group volunteers packed Cowaramup Hall, suitably trimmed in festive outfits and costumes for the hotly contested fashion parade.
Participants were also tasked with creating their own Christmas table decorations, with some truly creative concepts reaching the judges’ table.
A large collection of prizes were handed out on the night, all donated by local businesses and organisations keen to support the group.
“This year, our fundraiser takes on a slightly more serious nature,” MRTG President Jaime Werren told the crowd.
“We are very much looking forward to the upgrades and extensions being made to the Margaret River Cultural Centre.
“Unfortunately with the work that needs to be done at the site, the MRTG now finds itself homeless, and we are hoping to raise enough funds with events like this one to eventually establish our own headquarters for rehearsal, set construction, costume departments and other necessities.
Mrs Werren said the support of the community – both through ticket purchases and donations of prizes and services – was vital to the longevity of the group.
“This theatre group has been around for decades, and we are all one hundred per cent volunteers – not one person you see from the stage to the box office and behind the scenes is paid for their time.
“We do this for one reason, because we are all totally passionate about theatre and entertainment and providing that for our community.”
The crowd enjoyed a range of Christmas-themed games and questions throughout the evening, while raffle winners took home grand prizes including a Leeuwin Estate Immersion Experience, 20 kilograms of MSA Grade scotch fillet, wine, spa packages and locally crafted gifts.
Photos: Fran Gronow