Judy Bailey is the guest speaker at Tauranga’s White Ribbon Day Dinner & Auction for the city’s Women’s Refuge on November 21.

White Ribbon campaign organiser Buddy Mikaere said the dinner and auction are held every year.

“Unfortunately, the coming holiday season has an impact on families in need of the refuge services so a financial boost at this time of the year is critical.”

“Judy Bailey – the gracious newsreader who acquired the sobriquet ‘Mother of the Nation’ has kindly consented to attending our function on 21 November to be our guest speaker and we look forward to welcoming her to our city.”

Bailey is the founding member of Brainwave Trust and is a supporter of women’s refuges across the country.

“We are excited to have Judy gift her time and presence to support this amazing kaupapa with us,” said Mikaere.

In previous years the auction has raised around $10,000 for Women’s Refuge, and Mikaere said many sponsors have again generously donated items.

“One of the highlights of last year’s auction – keenly sought after – were some artworks by local painter Janice Giles. She has kindly donated some more of her works for auction this year too,” Mikaere said.

“I am always amazed by the support the Tauranga community puts into this event, and look forward to being in attendance too,” Tauranga Women’s Refuge manager Hazel Hape said.

The White Ribbon Dinner & Auction will be held at the Tauranga Club, Devonport Towers at 7pm, Thursday, November 21. Tickets are available via Eventbrite.