Cathy, Georgia, Karen, Mimma and Sandra are five close friends with a cause equally close to their hearts. Each touched personally by cancer, they’ve turned their individual experiences into a powerful collective called the ‘Pink Butterfly Ladies’ raising critical funds for Cancer Council Victoria to support women’s cancer research.
“Each year we host a lunch and have done so for 14 years, and our motivation is unwavering,” said Sandra. “Friends for many years, the Cancer Council’s vision is one that we passionately share.”
In 2010, the Pink Butterflies held their very first lunch, along with 22 women, raising $610. Over the years, the number of guests at their events has risen dramatically with 253 women showing their support at The Rocks, Williamstown in 2014 – raising $23,016.
So, when they hosted this year at the Yarraville Club with 209 guests raising $18,084, the accumulated years of diligent fundraising reached a significant milestone – $251,428!
“We like the sound of just over a quarter of a million dollars (!) for which we remain truly grateful and appreciate the support we receive from our wonderful sponsors and loyal guests each year,” said Sandra.
The Pink Butterfly Ladies say they don’t rely on advertising their event publicly. Their database grows each year through their own personal connections - many returning each year - and from there it’s been purely word of mouth.
This is just one way a Girls’ Night (or day) In can become a beloved tradition, a shared empowering experience, and a truly impactful cause in honour of the women in our lives affected by cancer.
This spring, why not get the girls in too? Whether it’s a few close mates or an entire community, we can all make a difference, raise awareness and give support – and have a great time while doing it!
To learn more about hosting – or attending – a Girls’ Night In event, head to
girlsnightin.cancervic.org.au
<- Back to Breakthrough, September 2025