The 25th Silver Anniversary Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) NSW Ball has raised an outstanding $1.1 million for seriously ill children and their families.

The black tie ball, held at the Sydney Convention Centre in Darling Harbour, was hosted by Australian comedian, radio host and television presenter Merrick Watts and featured performances by the String Diva’s, Bjorn Again and 2011 Australia’s Got Talent winner, Jack Vidgen.

Guests enjoyed sumptuous food and wine whilst bidding on exclusive auction and raffle items, including a Canturi diamond pendant, Louis Vuitton handbag, northern California Holiday, 20 Day African Safari, Vespa LX 150 and more, to help raise the $1.1million total.

The night’s festivities culminated with the raffle of a Honda CR-V Sport Package, kindly donated by Honda Australia.  Lucky guest Melissa Hey took home the luxury vehicle, valued at $42,400.

“We are absolutely thrilled with the support shown by the sponsors, donors and guests and volunteers at our 25th Silver Anniversary Ball,” said RMHC NSW Ball President, Carolyn Meadows.

“Every single dollar raised will greatly benefit the lives of NSW families, ensuring Ronald McDonald House Charities can continue to meet the growing demand for its essential programs,” said Carolyn.

The RMHC NSW Ball raises funds for an array of programs across NSW that provide vital support for families with a seriously ill child. These include the Ronald McDonald House program; which provides a home-away-from-home for families with a seriously ill child undergoing treatment, The Ronald McDonald Learning Program; which helps children recovering from illness catch up on missed education, Ronald McDonald Family Rooms; a comfortable hospital haven for families to unwind and Ronald McDonald Family Retreats; a location for families to take a well earned break together and reconnect.

Since the first Ronald McDonald House opened in Camperdown in 1981, RMHC has supported over 75,000 families. An estimated two million Australians have been helped, or having known someone who has been helped by RMHC.