So when the mother and local businesswoman came to choosing a local cause to support in the inaugural fundraising bash and small business showcase, Sweet ChariTEA, she barely had to think twice.

“At some point, unfortunately, most kids will use PatCH in one way or another. For me, PatCH affects the whole community. The staff go above and beyond and have helped families as a whole, healing families as a whole. But the care received and treatment received is taken for granted,” she said.

Ms Medcraft, who founded high tea business Swish Vintage Canberra, said she came up with idea to create a mega high tea fundraiser as a way to support a worthy cause while promoting the slew of small local businesses on the territory's doorstep.

She said the rising popularity of high tea in the capital had created an air of excitement for the afternoon bonanza, which would include a seven-course high-tea degustation, entertainment and fashion parades.

Rockstars and Royalty designer Vicky Kidd-Gallichan, who has also helped organise the event, will wow audience members with a two-part couture fashion show, while emerging business Shoe Wonderland will delight shopaholics with a special shoe showcase. Little Mac and the Monster Men, Jumptown Jammers and Brindabella Chrous will keep feet tapping, while Sass and Tease Collective will indulge in some family-friendly burlesque.

“It's caused a lot of interest and we're really excited to get it out. Everyone is excited about high tea at the moment and with all the entertainment people have jumped at the chance. Then as soon as we included PatCH it really took off,” she said.

Ms Medcraft said about 17 local businesses would donate food and style tables for the event, while another 50 sponsors had donated items for raffles, auctions and gift bags.

Corporate sponsorship has also allowed some staff, patients and families from PatCH and Ronald McDonald House to enjoy the fundraiser for free.

Ms Medcraft encouraged families and friends to dress up and enjoy what the region's local businesses had to offer while supporting a worthy cause.

“What better way to raise money than an event like this?” she said.

“We've had great support from small businesses. The business community has really pulled together – that's the nice part, everyone working together.”

Sweet ChariTEA will take place at The Abbey, Gold Creek Village on Sunday, August 25, from 1pm to 5pm. Tickets are $96 and available through Canberra Ticketing at www.canberraticketing.com.au

- The Chronicle