The Tamworth Rescue Ball saw 450 people dance their way through a black-tie evening at William Cowper Hall to raise money for the invaluable Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

Event co-ordinator Jeff Galbraith believed this year’s fundraiser could be the service’s most successful one yet. 

“It’s one of our major fundraisers each year,” Mr Galbraith said.

“Last year we had it at the lookout and that was spectacular.

“It was always going to be hard to match but the feedback we’ve had was nothing short of amazing.

“The entertainment was as good as you’ll ever see.”

Prizes raffled and auctioned off included two return airfares anywhere in Australia, vouchers and donated items from local businesses.

While the total amount raised is yet to be finalised, Mr Galbraith is optimistic all targets will be surpassed.

“We turned over $52,000 just from the auction,” he said.

“It’s a great result, certainly our best yet.”

The evening kick started with a Rio-flavoured dance performance before Jellybean Jam entertained the crowd. Mr Galbraith thanked the sponsors who so generously donated to the cause.  

The ball was off the back of the Ride for the Chopper, which raised $30,000 by the time it ended in Tamworth on Friday afternoon. 

The ride saw more than 50 riders and crew hit the road from Dubbo to Tamworth, covering some 400km in mountainous and wet conditions.

Along the way, they raised more than $30,000 for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, helping to keep it free for anyone who needs it in a medical emergency.

This was the 16th annual ride in aid of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

WRHS community liaison officer Michael Wilson told The Leader the event was “a travelling circus, but it’s great fun”.

“All the money that we raise goes to ensuring that no one ever has to pay because the service is there when you need it - and we just hope no one ever does.”