The 2012 Mayoral Charity Dinner shattered previous fundraising records for the event, with $80,000 raised for Bankstown Hospital’s Paediatric Unit.

“I was overwhelmed by the incredible generosity shown on the night by Bankstown’s businesses, clubs, community organisations and residents,” Mayor Asfour said.

“I thank all those who helped make the fundraiser such an outstanding success and I look forward to presenting a cheque to Bankstown Hospital in support of our sick children.”

Early counts had the fundraising figure at $67,000 but once all final donation pledges were tallied, the figure is now $80,000.

Mayor Asfour paid special tribute to Bankstown Sports Club for underwriting most of the costs of the night, and everyone who donated generously.

The 500-strong crowd which gathered in the Grand Ballroom of Bankstown Sports Club, was treated to a spectacular line-up of entertainment, headed by one of Australia’s leading MCs, Bankstown born and bred, Vince Sorrenti.

Outstanding performances by Bankstown’s Talent Advancement Program (TAP) vocalists, Nicole Thornton and Sinead Lee; award-winning illusionist, Adam Dean; ATSUI Fire & Light Show and other entertainment acts also featured on the night.

Bankstown Hospital’s Head of Paediatrics, Dr Phillip Emder, thanked the Mayor and the city on behalf of the patients, nurses, clerical, cleaning, medical and hospital school staff of his Paediatric Unit.

“We are extremely grateful for all the incredible effort that went into making the night a huge success,” Dr Emder said.

“The funds raised will be used to establish a short stay unit where the sickest children can be carefully monitored in a more suitable area in the paediatric unit, rather than in emergency, when they initially enter hospital.

“We can also purchase around 10 special pieces of monitoring equipment to help us do what we do best, save lives.”