A group of local people and businesses have come together to put on a special marquee at this year's Wellington Boot to raise funds for a very worthwhile cause.
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Michael and Brendan Girotto, together with Wayne and Julie Shepherd from Hermitage Hill are organising the Flamingo Marquee to not only celebrate the Boot's 40th anniversary, but raise funds for the Pink Angels.
The Wellington Boot will be held on April 4 and 5. The Flamingo Marquee will be available on the Sunday.
The idea for the marquee came about after the Girottos attended the Wellington Boot a few years ago and wanted to give punters and fashionistas something a little different to what they were used to at the hallmark race meet.
"We also thought it would be a good idea to partner with a local charity to support them and give people an opportunity to attend an event at what is already a hallmark event," Brendan explained.
"It's the biggest race in Wellington and also now the most expensive country race in terms of prize money and it's the Boot's 40th anniversary so I hope the day also represents that," Michael added.
He said the ladies at Pink Angels were "over the moon" to hear the marquee would be raising funds for them.
Raising funds for the local charity that supports women across the region with breast cancer was a cause very close to Michael.
"As I get older more of my family have had encounters with breast cancer and the more people you come across they've got relatives (who have been diagnosed), it's a really big issue," he explained.
Local businesses Jespresso, Infigen Energy, Funking Junk and the Soldier's Club have also thrown their support behind the inaugural marquee.
Preparations were going really well, with locals and people from out of town already purchasing tickets.
There will be plenty of fun and entertainment in the marquee with prizes for best dressed male and female, a charity sweep stakes, a DJ to provide musical entertainment and delicious food catered by Hermitage Hill.
The Girottos hope those attending who live away are able to see the amazing work done by the Pink Angels, but they also hope to raise awareness of the drought.
The marquee is open to anyone wishing to attend, and will be capped at 150 tickets.
If you would like to find out more information or to purchase tickets please visit www.flamingoattheboot.net
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