After her friend's mother passed away in September last year, Miss Elle Gallagher, 23, was devastated by the loss and felt it was important for her to help increase awareness through a charity night.

"So many young women don't know the risks and nearly all of us have been touched by cancer in some way. I hope this event will draw attention to that," she said.

Her mother-in-law and aunt have been diagnosed with breast cancer and Miss Gallagher said it had greatly affected her life.

She has organised the I Heart Pink charity night, a fund-raiser for women with breast and gynaecological cancers.

Miss Gallagher has already raised $5000, and has set her sights on a goal of $10,000.

All money raised will be donated to the Cancer Council. Tickets are $120 and include canapes and alcoholic beverages.

■ I Heart Pink charity night will be held this Friday, February 7, at Noah's on the Beach, corner of Zaara Street and the Shortland Esplanade, Newcastle. For more information phone 0423 615 679.