A Night To Remember

On Saturday, March 29, the Moranbah State High School Performance Hall was transformed into an elegant celebration of tradition and community, as the 48th Moranbah Debutante Ball unfolded in a stunning decor of fuchsia, white, and black. Sixteen debutantes, each escorted by their partners, were proudly presented to Cr Kelly Vea Vea, Mayor of Isaac Regional Council, marking a momentous occasion for the young individuals and the Moranbah community.

Cr Simon West of the Isaac Regional Council also joined in greeting the partners on stage, while Cr Melissa Westcott was present to share in the festivities. Compere for the evening, Neil Wicks, introduced the debutantes and their partners, who made their grand entrance before performing their first formal dance, the Swing Waltz.

The evening brought a modern twist to tradition, as the debutantes performed their rendition of the Black Eyed Peas’ “Boom Boom Pow,” followed by their partners showcasing an energetic version of Bruno Mars’ “Uptown Funk.”

Cr Kelly Vea Vea addressed the debutantes and their partners, offering words of encouragement and wisdom.

“Debs and partners, you have been mentored by people who shape our community,” she said.

“You have put down your phones to talk, to help each other, have fun and step out of your comfort zone. You are showing how to treat a partner with thoughtfulness and respect.

“These standards are not just meant for tonight. You should expect no less for yourself and important people in your life – this is the standard you all deserve.”

Miss Sian Lindsay and Mr. Loki Clinch had the honour of cutting the debutante cake, while Miss Tiffany McIntyre spoke on behalf of the debutantes and their partners. The formal proceedings concluded with the debutantes performing the Pride of Erin, followed by a dance with their parents, and later, ball patrons joined in the festivities.

The evening’s dance card included the Gypsy Tap, the Barn Dance, the Canadian Three-Step, the Progressive Jive, and the Friendship Waltz, with family and friends in attendance to celebrate the special occasion.

Mackay’s popular five-piece band, Hot Hot Hot, provided the entertainment for the evening, setting the perfect atmosphere for the memorable event.

Debutante Ball Coordinator, Judy Naumann, expressed her pride in the success of the night.

“The Debutantes and Partners participated in 9 weeks of Practices. To see all of our Debutantes and Partners up dancing and having fun is what makes this night special,” Naumann said.

Special thanks were extended to Marcia Goulevitch, Neil Wicks, Amanda Rose, Amanda Smith, Megan Austin, Sherrie Farnell, and Judy Naumann for their efforts in training the debutantes and partners, as well as organising the 2025 ELAM Debutante Ball.

The event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including ELAM Inc. Moranbah, the Freemasons Moranbah, The Moranbah Community Worker’s Club, Isaac Regional Council, BHP Benefiting My Community Program, MEU – Goonyella/Riverside and Peak Downs Lodges, Flexihire Moranbah, Create A Sign, and CUBE Bulk Moranbah.

Additional thanks were given to Mitre10 High Country Enterprises, Intersport Moranbah, Moranbah Furniture and Electrical, and Priceline Pharmacy for their contributions to the door raffle and lucky door prizes.

Contributed by Judy Naumann, Deb Ball Coordinator

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Kingston John, Charlotte Crawley, Zander Sammut, Isla Reynolds, Hannah Fuller, Shayde Blyss, Makayla King, Jackson Scholes.

Cody Kimber, Molly Johnstone, Ryder Crothers, Drew Bitcon, Emily Ivan-Fish, Lewis Brady, Macey Nicholas, Max Goldman

Zayan Braun, Charlee Curtis, William Westcott, Nevaeh Macfarlane, Katie Chirgwin-Gray, Kody Bruce, Tiffany McIntyre, Max Jameljanenko

Jaxon Ryan, Laylah Smith, Jacob Fanias, D’Arcy Otago, Sian Lindsay, Loki Clinch, Serene Florian, Ethan Clothier. Photo credit: Brooke Langley Photography

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