It all began with a series of somber conversations—too frequent, and sadly all too familiar.

In late 2023, a group of Geelong locals found themselves quietly connecting over a shared reality: someone they loved was living with, or had been lost to, dementia. These conversations, though informal, revealed a common experience that brought ten strangers together.

What followed was a thoughtful collaboration. With diverse skills and a shared purpose, the committee came together to create the Forget Me Not Ball—an event dedicated to raising funds for dementia research and increasing awareness within the broader community.

Above all, the goal is to stand with others affected by dementia, and to ensure the stories of their loved ones are honoured, remembered, and never forgotten.

Penny Whitehead is the 2026 Co-Chair of the Forget Me Not Ball.

Visit forgetmenotball.com.au