A GROUP of women in the shire has completely knocked the reputation of divas as being a temperamental, demanding and high-maintenance lot completely off centre stage.
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Our lot is earning esteem for their quite opposite behaviour, and doing good deeds.
The woman behind the group, Diva luncheons, is Emma Louise Fato of Long Beach, who returned from Bali inspired by a group of business women who gathered to network and to support charitable works.
The first Diva luncheon – a colourful kaftan-themed affair – was held at in November and part of the proceeds was given to Mission Australia, a charity nominated by Sally Minato of Surf Beach.
This Saturday the Divas will meet to support a cause championed by Anna Kravtsov – the transformation of the palliative care room at Batemans Bay Hospital.
Anna says her passion for the cause was fostered from personal experience.
A year ago Anna’s mother was diagnosed with bowel cancer and spent her final days in the palliative care room, surrounded by her family.
“The room is comfortable, and in a very private position, but I would like to improve the room in the hope of making this awful time for families just that little less difficult,” Anna said.
“We have estimated an amount of between $15,000 and $20,000 to transform this room, and then hope to work on the outdoor area of the hospital, an area also in need of an upgrade.”
Anna also said that when a loved one was nearing the end of life, family members did not want to leave their side.
“Having recliner chairs available in this room would ensure family members could be alongside their loved one day and night,” she said.
“The final, and very important, thing to me is families with young children facing this situation.”
Anna said an area, inside or outside, was also needed, where children could play safely.
“If anyone has anything they think may be suitable for such a room or outside area, we would greatly appreciate a donation or voucher, or even a discounted product which we could purchase from funds raised at the luncheon.”
Donations of prizes for the raffle would also be appreciated.
Everyone is welcome to the Diva’s butterfly-themed lunch at Barkala Café and Bar in Batemans Bay on Saturday (if you don’t have time to rustle up a butterfly outfit, an expert face painter will be there to save the day).
Tickets are $50, which includes a flute of champers, canapes and lunch, and are available from Sirens in North Street.
Offers of donations can be directed to Emma on 0498 215 176.
