![BACK ON: Bruce Shiach-Wise, Owen Yabsley and Graeme Anderson suited up for the return of the ball. Photo: Supplied BACK ON: Bruce Shiach-Wise, Owen Yabsley and Graeme Anderson suited up for the return of the ball. Photo: Supplied](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/150521478/cd383f8f-ecc8-41d3-b87e-bf0aa1398a43.jpg/r0_3_1198_677_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
WHILE it might not be a night under the stars, the glitz and glamour of Tamworth's Westpac Rescue Helicopter ball will finally go ahead.
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With the ball called off back in February due to COVID-19 restrictions and low ticket sales, 'The Greatest Show' is ready to take place at a brand new location and date.
Westpac Rescue Helicopter CEO Richard Jones said he was thrilled to announce the re-launch of the fundraising event, after the decision to postpone the ball was not made "lightly".
"We live and work with the ambulance service everyday so we're reminded everyday about how these things can escalate," Mr Jones said.
"We're an extremely risk averse organisation, the health ad safety of our people and those attending is paramount in our minds."
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In February, organisers of the ball told the Leader there was a clear hesitancy from the community about getting out and about.
But just a few months later, Mr Jones said things were back on track.
"We're back baby!"
The ball, which is usually held at the Oxley Lookout will now go ahead at the Tamworth Town Hall on August 27 and will include a night full of food, live entertainment and good company.
While the event is one of the biggest fundraisers on the chopper's calendar, Mr Jones said the ball was also an opportunity to say thank you to the sponsors that keep the aircraft flying.
"We'll raise as much money as we can from the generosity of people, but it's also a chance to get people together and for us to tell our story about what we do," he said.
Loanna Single, owner of Single Builders, the major sponsor for the ball, said it was a privilege to support such an important service in the community.
"Many people in this region owe their life or those of a loved one to the Westpac Helicopter Service," Ms Single said.
"They are such an integral part of both our medical and rescue services within our region and it is critical that they remain here."
With the regional medical system reliant on fast and efficient transport, Mr Jones said without the support of the community they wouldn't be able to offer the service to country NSW.
With the capacity of the Town Hall much smaller than the Lookout, tickets are almost sold out.
To secure a ticket, or to join the waiting list, phone 1800 155 155.
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