An event to raise funds for Tamworth to host the 2019 Australasian Fire and Rescue Championships, the ball was held at West Tamworth League Club’s Blazes Showroom.

NSW Fire & Rescue zone superintendent Tom Cooper said “there was some glamour there, that’s for sure” among the 120-plus guests at the Hollywood-themed night.

“All the male firies that turned up wore uniform, including the Rural Fire Service guys,” Superintendent Cooper said.

“But at one point, I was talking to a group of people and wondered why one of the women was so talkative and engaged with me – then I realised she was one of my firies.

“I’ve only ever seen her with her hair tied back and in firefighting uniform.

“It was really good to see people got involved with the theme of the night – they certainly did scrub up OK.”

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Superintendent Cooper said the proceeds hadn’t yet been calculated, but would go towards the costs of hosting the October 2019 championships.

He said the event should be a big boost to the city and expected it would draw in up to 1000 people, including competitors, their families and officials.

The ball was well-supported by the club, which provided the venue free; and local businesses, which had given raffle items or in-kind donations.

Splashpool frontman Kevin Anderson also donated back his share of the band fee.

“Overall, I think everyone had a good time on the night; there were plenty of people willing to support us,” Superintendent Cooper said.