Showgirls, casino chips and bright lights made this year’s Viva Las Vegas Night of 1000 Stars an evening to remember at Sonpark Shopping Centre. On Friday, September 5, Lowvelders donned their best bling and fabulous fashion in aid of CANSA.

One of the best-dressed couple winners, Sonja Nel, arrived in her wedding dress to ‘get married’ in Vegas. Another best-dressed winner, Daryl Hutchinson, dressed up as a Western gambler.

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Several of the city’s best restaurants such as Wagyu Groove, Cicada, Orange, Doppio Zero, Abeega, Bossa and Blue Gate served delicious three-course meals for guests to enjoy under sparkling fairy lights. At the end of the night, a panel voted for the best restaurant of the night and Cicada walked away the overall winner.

Bossa won the prize for best starter and Cicada also won prizes for best main and dessert. Blue Gate and Doppio Zero shared the prize for best table decor.

Swing City and Stix Dumisa entertained guests with their wit and charm, transporting guests to a live show in Vegas. Magicians and a lively balloon-popping game for prizes and vouchers added to the fun while raising more funds.

The night proceeded to a live auction by Dewald Jacobs with spectacular getaways under the hammer. One bidder offered R30 000 for a three-night stay at Kruger View Lodge. The auction raised a total of R57 000.

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Sandra Jacobs, the organiser of the event, shared her heartfelt gratitude to all the sponsors. “Thank you to our sponsors: Sonpark Shopping Centre Nelspruit, SPAR Lowveld, Ford Nelspruit, Doug’s Hiring and Lowvelder, and to each and every prize sponsor,” Jacobs stated. She also thanked Rinella Jansen van Vuuren and the CANSA committee for providing unwavering support, and every person who helped to make the night possible.

he event has generated more than R2m over the past 20 years, and on Friday alone, over R120 000 was collected for CANSA – funds that will change many cancer patients’ lives.