Big effort rewarded with title | Whitsundays News | Local News in Whitsundays

WHITSUNDAY girl Dena Shaw raised more than $8000 for Angel Flight and received the accolade of North Queensland Charity Debutante of the Year in Townsville last weekend.

“The look on my face said it all,” she said.

“I felt my stomach drop when they announced it.”

The 16-year-old was well supported by other Whitsunday residents Tara Jameljanenko and Casey Carmichael who were also among the awards.

Tara won Charity Bride of the Year for raising more than $3000 and Casey was named Miss Teen Trendsetter in the Miss Elegant section.

Tara’s award was passed down to her by former winner and Sister Melita Pratt who was also one of the event coordinators during the weekend.

Tara who was also named most photogenic bride is pleased to contribute to such a good cause.

“It was fun to meet the other girls and it’s good to help those non-profit organisations,” she said.

Casey supported Tara’s comments and recommended other debs or brides participate in what she described a fun and worthwhile event.

Money is still coming in with about $30,000 already raised towards the cause.

Mrs Pratt commended all three girls for their effort, particularly for raising the money in a short timeframe.

Angel Flight is a charity that co-ordinates non-emergency flights to help regional people trying to deal with poor finances, bad health and daunting distance.