Time is running out for buying tickets for the Mayoral Gala that will take place next Friday, 12 October 2012, to raise funds for Mayoral Relief Fund. The fund is utilised to support underprivileged members of the community who have lost their possessions in shack fires, etcetera, or who have been selected to participate in national or provincial sports events and do not have funds that are often required for their participation.

“Although we have received good sponsorships, notably from Standard Bank and the ATKV, which have each given platinum sponsorships of R50 000 each for this prestigious event, the fund can never be strong enough as the needs in our community are many. Deserving causes can often not be supported due to a lack of funds.

“The Municipality can by law not use municipal funds for this purpose and we are therefore dependent on fund-raising events or sponsorships to build up the fund. It is a most-deserving cause and appeal is made to the public to support the event,” said the Executive Mayor, Alderlady Marie Ferreira.

The Mayor said the aim is to raise R250 000 and good progress is being made towards reaching the target as, in addition to the Standard Bank and ATKV platinum sponsorships. golden sponsorships of R30 000 each have been received from PetroSA, Business Engineering and CVW Consulting Engineers. Silver sponsorships of R20 000 each have been received from MeyerOtto Accountants, Royal Haskoning DHV Consulting Engineers and New Adventure Plant Hire. MVD Consulting Engineers, Vela-VKE Consulting Engineers and ABSA Bank have taken up bronze sponsorships at R15 000 each.

The cost per ticket for this black-tie event is R400 per person and the cost of the ticket includes a three-course meal, wine on the tables and dance music. Tickets can be purchased at the cashiers at the Municipality in Marsh Street, Mossel Bay. Enquiries can be addressed to the Office of the Municipal Manager at (044) 606-5003.