THE fifth annual Diner en Rouge was held on Saturday, May 18, bringing guests together to stand against domestic and family violence.
The event was attended by 250 guests, many of whom had travelled from outside the Redlands.
The gala, which had a red and white theme, raised $70,000 for domestic and family violence support services, bringing its five year fundraising total to more than $330,000.
Mayor Karen Williams said fundraising efforts had easily surpassed her target of $200,000 by 2020.
"I thank all those who have contributed from the bottom of my heart," she said.
"This year, we were all deeply moved by the donation of yet another $50,000 by incredible Redlands Coast resident Dan Holzapfel, who has been a generous benefactor from the outset.
"Thanks to Mr Holzapel, our event partners and sponsors and all those who have supported Diner en Rouge, we are now well on the way to providing further significant support where our local domestic and family violence services need it most."
Maybanke Accommodation and Crisis Support Service was presented with a cheque for $250,000 at Saturday night's glittering gala.
Cr Williams said the money would help Mayebank to furnish four new crisis accommodation units being provided by the state government and provide toys and comfort for children and women who found safety there.
"(Diner en Rouge) showed that by working together the Redlands Coast community can make a real difference for people whose lives have been torn apart," she said.
Maybanke Accommodation and Crisis Support Service manager Valda Carrington said her organisation was overwhelmed by the support.
"Donations such as this assist us to provide our families with the necessities to make their stay more comfortable," she said.
"Often a woman escaping domestic violence leaves home with very little, so this money will enable us to make the units more comfortable and provide a little joy for children who have had to leave precious toys behind.
"A donation as significant as this will help to secure the futures of the women and children who come to us for help to escape the cycle of violence and abuse in their lives."
During the event, guests also heard from domestic violence survivor, author and ambassador of Our Watch and White Ribbon Australia Rebecca Poulson.
Entertainment was provided by Honey Music and Tenori.
