Unforgettable night for debutantes

Fifteen beautiful young ladies and their dashing partners enjoyed a night of enchantment when the 2024 Tumut Debutante Presentation Ball was held at the Tumut Golf Club in September. PHOTO: Struan Timms Photography

The 2024 Tumut Debutante Presentation Ball was held at the Tumut Golf Club on Saturday, 28th September. 

Fifteen young couples made their debut, presenting themselves to the special guest of the evening, Leonie Flint. After over two months of training in both presentation skills and dancing, the Debutantes and their Partners were ready for their special night.

The event commenced with MC Tony Butler warmly welcoming everyone to the 2024 Tumut Debutante Presentation Ball. He shared a brief history of the tradition and how it continues to evolve. Tony then introduced special guest Leonie Flint, accompanied by her partner Steve Edgerton.

The Golf Club, beautifully decorated in a light and bright spring theme by dedicated volunteers, featured matching balloon arrangements from Kylie Eveleigh of Tumut Toyworld. Flower girl Gracie Grayland and page boy Angus McDonell were introduced and presented Leonie with a bouquet.

Tony Butler announced each debutante and partner as they made their grand entrance and took their places on the dance floor. Guests gathered at the edge of the floor to witness the formal presentation to Leonie Flint. Each Debutante curtsied, and each Partner bowed and shook hands with Leonie, who presented them with commemorative scrolls. After this, it was time for what many parents had been eagerly awaiting – the dancing.

The first dance, a graceful Waltz, was performed to “Beautiful Crazy” by Luke Combs, followed by a lively Progressive Swing to “Little Bitty Pretty One” by Thurston Harris. The evening’s grand finale was a spectacular Cowboy Cha Cha, danced to “Somebody Like You” by Keith Urban. Families cheered as the young couples completed their final dance and mingled with the crowd. When dinner was announced, the partners escorted their debutantes to the main table for the meal.

A delicious roast dinner for 225 guests was served by Li’s Chinese Restaurant, accompanied by fresh bread rolls from Woolworths Tumut and vegan options from Riverside Café. Special guest Leonie Flint delivered an inspiring speech, encouraging the young debutantes to seize opportunities and explore the world. This was followed by the cutting of the stunning debutante cake, crafted by Sweets and Treats, Tumut. Afterward, the Debutantes and their Partners invited special guests from their tables to join them on the dance floor to the tune of “Horses” by Darryl Braithwaite, performed live by the outstanding Platinum Duo from Robertson. Platinum Duo also performed a series of popular songs requested by the Debutantes prior to the event.

For dessert, guests enjoyed a combination of debutante cake, delicious slices from Dawn Lubke, and healthy fruit platters skillfully arranged by Anna Whyte.

The success of the event was made possible by a dedicated team of organizers and volunteers. Leah Ferguson, through her business Fergie’s Footsteps, coordinated the ball with the invaluable support of Louise Dowling and Maddie McDonell. Volunteers, including Tessa Johnson, Henry Dowling, Vicki Lewis, Anne Strange, Anna Whyte, and Tony Ferguson, Leah’s husband, were instrumental in setting up and packing down the venue.

Leah extends heartfelt thanks to these individuals and to the many local businesses that contributed to the event. Special thanks to Wendy and her staff at Wendellie on Wynyard for managing all the partners’ suit hire needs, Tara from Tumut Valley Florist for her stunning floral arrangements, and Lisa from Sweets and Treats for creating the beautiful and delicious debutante cake.

Gratitude also goes to the Tumut Golf Club’s management and staff, including Boe, Isabelle, Jackie, Simon, and Lorelei, for their excellent service. Thanks also to Jeff, Cindy, Jason, Nadeene, and the other wait staff for the delicious meal, and to Dawn Lubke and Anna Whyte for dessert. Photographer Struan Timms, with his assistant Sonia, along with Kate Stubbs, made sure the Debutantes and Partners felt comfortable and captured stunning images of the evening.

A special thank you to Leonie Flint for receiving the 2024 Debutantes, and to Angus and Gracie for their wonderful flower girl and page boy duties. Finally, to the parents and guardians who helped the Debutantes and Partners prepare and look their best, and to the 2024 Tumut Debutantes and Partners – congratulations on an unforgettable night!

2024 Debutantes and Partners

Matilda Connolly and Russell Guppy

Matilda Connolly, 17, fulfilled a childhood dream at the ball, celebrating her love for music and dance. Tumut-born and passionate about sports and art, Matilda looked every bit the princess she dreamed of as a child. Her love for dancing, inspired by Grease’s John Travolta, was evident throughout the evening. Alongside her was Russell Guppy, 18, whose love for music and collecting vinyl complemented Matilda’s artistic spirit. A swimmer with a passion for Bowie and Winehouse, Russell took on the night with enthusiasm, showing off dance skills that surprised even him.

Abbey Hobson and Ernest Lotter

Abbey Hobson, 16, took the stage with a natural confidence, inspired by her hardworking nan who proved it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. Avid about reading, biking, and travelling, Abbey danced with grace. She was partnered by Ernest Lotter, also 16, who, although modest about his dancing abilities, stepped up to the challenge. Originally from South Africa, Ernest embraced the evening, channelling his inner Michael Jackson to make the night one to remember.

Bailee Hotham and Billy Salmon

Bailee Hotham, 17, brought her love of fun and fitness to the ball, dazzling the crowd with her family-inspired charm. Her confident dance skills were on full display, as she carried on a family tradition of elegance and grace. Bailee was joined by Billy Salmon, 17, an outdoorsman and rugby player. Though he admitted to being less confident in his moves, Billy took on the night with enthusiasm, inspired by his father’s own dancing skills, and happily partnered with Bailee for this special occasion.

Alana McInerney and Will Crawford

Animal lover and aspiring veterinary student, 16-year-old Alana McInerney, charmed the audience with her determination and lively spirit. Her dance moves, inspired by Britney Spears, were a highlight of the evening. Alana shared the stage with Will Crawford, 17, an avid clay target shooter and basketball player who has proudly represented Australia in competition. While Will admitted dancing wasn’t his forte, he took to the floor with confidence, making it a night to remember.

Rhiarna Worley and Matthew Ferguson

Rhiarna Worley, 16, lit up the evening with her vibrant personality and love for adventure. With her dad as her idol, she danced with elegance and grace, drawing inspiration from her aunty. Rhiarna’s partner, Matthew Ferguson, 17, brought his athleticism to the dance floor. A tennis player since the age of four, Matthew embraced the night, proving that with hard work and practice, anything is possible.

Isla McDougall and Curtis Beck

Tumut-born Isla McDougall, 17, brought grace and confidence to the dance floor, influenced by the strong presence of her mother and sister, whom she cites as her biggest inspirations. Isla, who enjoys spending time with friends, shopping, and travelling, saw her debut as a chance to create lasting memories. Dancing alongside her was Curtis Beck, 17, whose love for adventure and the outdoors, including motorbiking and fishing, shone through as he embraced the night’s fun.

Jacee-May Lucas and Preston Loneragan

At 16, Jacee-May Lucas was all smiles as she took part in the Debutante Ball, celebrating her love for sports, especially rugby. Inspired by her brother’s bravery, Jacee-May danced with energy and excitement. She was joined by Preston Loneragan, also 16, a basketball enthusiast who took to the floor with dedication. Preston, inspired by Kobe Bryant, gave the evening his all, making for a fun and memorable experience.

Phoebe Harris and Kaleb Davies

Phoebe Harris, 16, who has called Tumut home her entire life, took to the floor with elegance and poise. A passionate netball player, Phoebe’s performance was a tribute to her Auntie Jess, who inspires her to be kind and caring. Partnering with Phoebe was Kaleb Davies, 17, who, though uncertain about his dancing, rose to the occasion. A basketball player and movie lover, Kaleb added his own charm to the evening, making the night special for both families.

Brooke Johns and Tristan Whiting

Brooke Johns, 17, who moved to Tumut as a child, embraced the Debutante Ball with humour and style. She credited her mother as her inspiration, as she partnered with Tristan Whiting, also 17. Tristan, a TAFE student with a love for cars and fishing, joined Brooke in making the evening one filled with laughter and memorable moments.

Maddison Piper and Henry Hindmarsh

Maddison Piper, 16, a talented artist from Tumut, she credited her mum as her graced the dance floor with confidence. Partnered by Henry Hindmarsh, 17, the duo brought a creative and lively energy to the event. Henry, fresh from his debut at the Gundagai Masonic Debutante Ball, was eager to relive the experience, making the night a thrilling and fun occasion.

Annie Larder and Riley Dowell

Annie Larder, 16, moved gracefully across the floor, to the delight of her guests watching on. Inspired by her friends and family, especially her sister, Annie embraced the evening alongside her partner, Riley Dowell. Riley, 17, known for his love of adventure and fun, danced with enthusiasm, leaving everyone with smiles and memories to last a lifetime.

Sienna Dehnert and Jaylen Bell

Sienna Dehnert, 16, brought her energy and love for football to the dance floor, delighting everyone with her confident moves. Her partner, Jaylen Bell, 17, a passionate football player, matched Sienna’s enthusiasm, showing off their skills, they made for a dynamic duo.

Jayda Bradshaw and Kian Knight

Jayda Bradshaw, 16, who has been playing netball for over a decade, took the floor with poise and confidence, celebrating her love for family and tradition. She was joined by Kian Knight, 16, a national-level swimmer, who brought his dedication and confidence to the night. Together, the two friends made a striking pair, creating a night to remember.

Demi Sturt and Riley Woods

Demi Sturt, 16, an aspiring veterinarian and avid football player, took to the dance floor with enthusiasm, ready to fulfill her longtime dream of making her debut. Demi was joined by Riley Woods, also 16, who embraced the night with confidence. A passionate NRL fan and apprentice carpenter, Riley’s dance moves reflected his dedication and joy, making for a special night with his lifelong friend.

Grace Gilchrist and Misha Skein-Bruins

Grace Gilchrist, 17, celebrated her family’s tradition of making a debut, dancing with grace and charm. Inspired by her sister’s achievements, Grace stepped up to the challenge alongside Misha Skein-Bruins, also 17. Though Misha modestly claimed not to be a great dancer, his efforts on the dance floor said otherwise, capping off a night of joy and elegance.

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