Under the eerie Halloween moonlight, ghosts, ghouls, spirits and skeletons descended on Mt Duneed Estate for the 2025 genU Big Night Out. More than 230 guests attended the 22nd iteration of the annual inclusion event held on Friday 31 October, which delivered a night of laughter, dancing and inclusivity to Geelong.

The night kicked off with a choreographed creepy performance from genU’s Drama Stars, featuring daring dance moves to a medley of spooky songs including Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ and the iconic ‘Ghostbusters’ theme song. Meanwhile, Master of Ceremonies Luke Maher kept spirits high and captured the crowd's attention with his commanding constable costume.

With scary surprises around every corner, this year’s Halloween theme transformed the venue into a haunted hall of horrors. Cobwebs draped the walls, pumpkins glowed at every turn and themed centrepieces and desserts brought spooky touches to every table.

Chief Operating Officer Brooke Draper, who celebrated her first Big Night Out this year, said she can see why the event is such a beloved part of the genU calendar.

“It was a fantastic night celebrating diversity, inclusivity and accessibility,” Ms Draper said. “It also gives people with disability a fun opportunity to socialise and build meaningful connections with genU team members, corporate partners and community groups in a safe and supportive environment.”

Ms Draper said the night was alive with laughter and music as old and new friends came together to celebrate.

“There were smiles on every face from the moment they entered the room,” she said. “The energy was electric, and the dancefloor was packed all night with a lively dance competition thanks to DJ Brad Gerrard spinning some great tunes.”

The annual event attracts guests from across the state, with many genU clients and staff travelling from Portland, Warrnambool, Colac and Werribee.

Close to 30 participants and staff from Warrnambool and Colac attended the event, and Senior Team Leader Jamie Sorlie said the excitement had been building for weeks leading up to the Big Night Out.

“A lot goes into planning the Big Night Out. Staff and participants contribute in so many ways, and their energy creates an incredible buzz,” they said.

“The highlight for me was seeing everyone arrive in their spooky finest, it was a true spectacle. The smiles and laughter will stay with me for years to come, and I can’t wait for next year.”

Board Chair Ingrid Fraser-Williams, who was dressed at a witch on the night, said events like the Big Night Out would not be possible without the support of local businesses and corporate partners.

“We’re incredibly grateful to our event partner, Equity Trustees for their involvement and generous contributions,” Ms Fraser-Williams said. “Their support enables us to significantly subsidise ticket prices, making the event affordable and accessible for people with disability.”

For information on how to become involved in genU inclusion activities, please email genuinclusion@genu.or.au.