THE spirit of generosity, community and music was on full display on Sunday 7 December, as Port Stephens locals and friends gathered at Soldiers Point Bowling Club for a special fundraising concert in support of Ovarian Cancer Australia (OCA).
The concert, titled Peace, Joy and Harmony, drew an enthusiastic crowd of around 200 people, filling the auditorium to capacity and raising a remarkable $10,665 for the cause.
Of this total, $6,975 was donated through the OCA fundraising website, with a further $3,690 raised on the day through door donations and raffles, supported by prizes from local businesses.
The fundraiser was inspired by Port Harmony member Kathy Mead, who was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2025. In response, the choir chose to dedicate its end-of-year concert to raising funds and awareness for the disease.
In the weeks leading up to the event, significant donations were received from Kathy’s family, friends and the wider community, Donors include Soldiers Point Lions Club, Salamander Bay Rotary Club and Maitland Graduate Nurses.
Port Harmony also extended its sincere thanks to Soldiers Point Bowling Club for generously donating the use of the auditorium and Port Stephens FM for the promotion.
During the concert, audience members were informed about the impacts of ovarian cancer and the current state of research.
In a particularly moving moment, Kathy, supported by her husband and joined by her son and granddaughter who travelled from Melbourne, courageously shared her personal journey with ovarian cancer.
Port Harmony members said they were overwhelmed by the community response and the strong show of support. The large turnout reflected Kathy’s long-standing involvement and reputation as an enthusiastic supporter of community groups.
Port Harmony thanked the Port Stephens community for getting behind the fundraiser and enabling OCA to continue its vital work supporting patients and their families.
For more information, visit the Port Harmony Facebook page or the Ovarian Cancer Australia website.
The fundraising page will remain open until the end of January and can be accessed via the link on Port Harmony’s Facebook page.
By Jacie WHITFIELD
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