Gold city unmasks its generosity

The GBF Underground Behind the Mask masquerade ball has been regaled as a success raising much needed funds for research into depression and anxiety-related disorders.

The event held earlier this month, which saw more than 450 guests, was the brain child of local mother-of-three Heather Weston, who lost her husband to a battle with depression last year.

Sponsored by local companies including GBF Underground, Terra Drilling, Strachan Plumbing, Mining Mechanical Services and Kalgoorlie Metro, the event managed to raise more than $35,000.

The masquerade ball featured a keynote address from State of Origin legend Wally Lewis, who spoke of his personal battle and recovery from depression after his retirement from rugby league. Mrs Weston said the ball was a great step in the healing process for herself since the loss of her husband.

“We have had an amazing response to the cause and it was a wonderful night,” she said.

“Wally Lewis was very inspiring in his speech.”