It started in 2022 as something “quirky and different” for a good cause.

But in just its third year, the Spring Fashion Fundraiser has already become a fixture on the Portarlington social calendar.

Event creator and host Sonja Di Pietro proudly organised the largest show to date recently with five local fashion houses showing their wares to a full house at the Portarlington Golf Club.

Models representing Just Next Door, Kouture By the Sea, Montana’s, Hive and The Ducks Nuts showcased the upcoming summer trends on the red-carpet runway.

And with lovely canapes and a welcome drink provided by presenting sponsor Stockdale & Leggo, the crowd was well pleased with a fabulous evening’s entertainment.

“It was a terrific night and the feedback from everyone was extremely positive,” Sonja said.

“We are all so lucky to live and work in such an amazing, supportive community.”

The reasons – aside from fashion – that brought the evening to life are many, but include Sonja’s desire to give the women of the Portarlington region their own “night out”.

And as the name suggests, there’s always a fundraising element that makes the function even more important.

“I’m pleased to let you know that we raised $2676 for the Sexual Assault and Family Violence Centre,” Sonja said.

“It’s incredible that we all get to have a great evening, support the local businesses and make an impact for a really important cause … I couldn’t be happier with how it has been received.”