Bright red and pink florals set the tone inside Gerringong Town Hall on Saturday 10 May as more than 160 guests came together for a joyful Mother’s Day High Tea celebrating motherhood, friendship and fundraising.

There were cupcakes for the kids, bubbles for the mums and enough sausage rolls to keep the grandads smiling.

Platters of home-baked sweets, savoury quiches and dainty sandwiches filled the tables, while pots of tea and coffee in bone china cups kept conversation flowing.

Adding to the atmosphere was 17-year-old Sophie Wallis, who sang and played guitar throughout the afternoon.

A volunteer with framerunning, Sophie knows the value of medical research and donated her time in support of the Children’s Medical Research Institute (CMRI).

The Gerringong CMRI Committee brought their usual sparkle to the event, with 15 years of high tea experience evident in every table setting and plate.

“It’s the teamwork that makes it happen,” one guest remarked between bites of sponge cake.

A highlight of this year’s event was the raffle of a handcrafted quilt featuring fabrics collected by Annette Hoskins on a quilting tour of France.

Created and donated by Annette and the Kiama Quilters, the quilt was won by Marie Cimerman of Gerroa, who had purchased her ticket at IGA.

Sixteen other guests took home prizes from the multi-draw raffle, thanks to the generosity of local businesses and individuals.

From spa vouchers to handmade jewellery, the support shown by the community made every ticket count.

All funds raised go directly to the CMRI to support research into childhood genetic diseases.