Teaming up: Sharon Norris (front) visits Maroondah Breast Clinic director Dr David Stoney, Mary-Anne Dennemoser (nurse), Marika Mintern-Lane (charity organiser) and Michelle Clemson (breast clinic manager). Picture: Lucy Di Paolo
DON'T judge a book by its cover, so goes the adage — and it's certainly personified by the Diamond Singles.
Despite the name, the Maroondah-based social group is not so much about matchmaking as it is about fund-raising, with Maroondah Breast Clinic its key cause.
They've just chosen to do so in a novel way — through organising singles events for those aged over 40 and encouraging social activities for singles in that age group.
"It's about trying to make a difference in the lives of others who have been touched by cancer," club president Sharon Norris says.
She says the name represents the different facets and colours in diamonds — just like in all people.
"There are many mature singles who are looking to meet others in the same situation," she says. "Everyone is a VIP. We're trying to help two communities — singles that are over 40, and breast cancer sufferers."
Before forming Diamond Singles — run by an eight-member committee — Ms Norris was raising money for the clinic by hosting fund-raisers out of her backyard.
"I was running morning teas, luncheons and gold coin collections," says the Croydon resident. "During the events we'd play games and other fun stuff like 'pass the parcel'. I charged people for entering my home, pretty much."
Interestingly enough, Diamond Singles was started almost by accident, with Ms Norris's intentions being to host a girls' night out, before she and the other members changed their plans at the last minute.
The night was first held in January and raised $1200 for breast cancer research. The event is hosted by the Maroondah Sports Club, its main sponsor.
This Sunday, Ms Norris and fellow committee members will host its second event and hope to have more than the 70 people who attended last time.
Entry is $20 and runs from 7pm-11pm. To book, or help sponsor the event, call Ms Norris on 0404 225 785.