Balgowlah Uniting Church was recently transformed into a "gig space" as it opened its doors on a Friday night to over 150 people for the Manly community who gathered for a chilled out night of good music, good food and good company.  "Everyone sat around on the floor or stood up the back, it was very cool to see the church transformed into a gig space, with candles and lighting setting a very chilled out mood," said event organiser, Hanna Miflin.
 
Funds raised on the night were for the provision of micro-loans for families in Manado through Manly-Manado's partner in Manado, Bridge of Hope. "It was so encouraging to realise that a relatively simple night like this - of good music and good food - can literally transform lives," said Hanna.  We also got the opportunity to learn more about how Manly-Manado is not only transforming lives in Manado but also here in Manly.  It was a really cool night and a big thanks to all who was part of it."
 
And a special thanks to all the people who brought their homemade baked goods which sold like "hot cakes", as well as the amazing coffee from the guys at Barefoot Coffee in Manly, who provided a free barista.