A twinkling spring evening on Saturday October 15th, saw guests gather at the Beenleigh Events Centre for the Rotary Club of Beenleigh’s signature event for 2022, the Beenleigh Cane Gala Ball.

As guests arrived in their finest gowns and suits ready for a night to remember, the were welcomed by the sweet tunes of Scarlett Road, a five-piece all lady bluegrass band.

150-attendees enjoyed a meal, showcasing local produce from Logan’s finest producers including Teys Australia Rib Fillet, Golden Cockerel Chicken, Gold Coast Tiger Prawns, Bee All-Natural Honey, and Beenleigh Artisan Distillers Rum.

Official proceedings got underway with the exciting launch of ‘Follow the Sugar Trail’, the first book in the Sugar Sweet Stories Youth Literacy Project.

The funds raised from the 2021 event were used to commission this first book in a series that will now follow on.

Penned by author Karen Tyrrell, the story takes young readers on a journey through the Beenleigh and surrounding areas and celebrates where the community has come today.

Follow characters Martha and Jacob take as they visit historic and iconic local landmarks and businesses, this stunningly and cleverly illustrated, by Megan Forward, characters are depicted with both historic and modern version of local landmarks.

Originals of the illustrations have also been donated to the program with part of the proceeds of sales going toward the continuation of the youth literacy project.

Further highlights from the evening included Rotary Club of Beenleigh President Janee Hong present Cr Karen Murphy with a Paul Harris Fellow recognition, which is one of the highest honours available from Rotary International.

Cr Murphy was recognised for dedication and commitment to the local community.

“I’m very honoured to have received the Paul Harris Fellow award for my years of service to the community�, said Cr Murphy.

“It was very unexpected and I am truly blessed to have the support of Rotary Beenleigh.â€?

The evening concluded with a live auction, conducted by event sponsor Michael Wardlaw from House Property Agents. All funds raised on the evening will go toward publishing a second book in the literacy series.

The Beenleigh Cane Parade and Gala Ball will be back again in May 2023. For further information and updates visit beenleighrotary.org