The fund-raiser will support the development of a new children’s and women’s health precinct at the hospital, as well as provide money for the new onsite emergency helipad.

The ball, which is held on the Portland foreshore, has become a mainstay on the community’s social calendar and has generated thousands of dollars for sick children through the Make-A-Wish Foundation in its 13-year history.

However, members of the Portland Make-A-Wish committee resigned en masse last year after communication issues could not be resolved, leaving the south-west without a branch. 

Despite this turn of events, previous volunteer members have continued to plan the event in conjunction with Portland District Health — relaunching the ball as the ‘PDH Wish Upon a Star’.

Former branch president Gail Jaensch said she was pleased the ball would continue to support a worthy local cause. “We are a passionate group of volunteers and we will continue to go with our passion,” Ms Jaensch said.

“We have chosen to come on board with PDH as we believe the helipad is very important for our town and for the whole south-west.

“It’s Portland’s event and we want to continue that. We are hoping the entire town will get behind us and support this as it is a community event.

“It will be nice to see all monies raised go locally, so we can give back something to the public who have supported us all the way.” The ball will feature free attractions in the form of children’s entertainers Micmacs and Melbourne rockers Noisy Neighbours, as well as a market throughout the day.

Health service chief executive officer Chris Giles said PDH was pleased to partner with the volunteers to make sure the ball was a success.

“We welcome the opportunity to work with the volunteers and to have their support through this great community event,” Ms Giles said.

The ‘Wish Upon a Star’ ball will be held Saturday, February 7. Tickets can be purchased from Leading Edge in Portland.