The coming-of-age ceremony has been a tradition in the Catholic Church for hundreds of years and while the tradition has faded over time, the Oberon Parish still hosts the event every year.

"The Catholic Balls have been going out here for, forever really," Oberon Parish secretary Sharon Hughes said.

"It's a bit outdated but it's still a big community event. Everybody really enjoys seeing the girls, getting together with friends and family and having dinner."

Due to Covid, last year was the first year that the Oberon Parish didn't host the ball, with this event's group of debutantes being from 2020.

The night consisted of the girls being presented to parish priest Father Reynold Jaboneta, followed by a formal dinner and dancing.

Father Jaboneta conducted the official ceremony with matron of honour Mrs Julie Booth.

In attendance at the ball were Laura McKee, Noah Anderson, Rachel Reynolds, Thomas Casey, Kate-Lynn Fourie, Olli Baker, Jakob Gibbons, Amie Booth, Kate Luther, Kelsey Sheehy, DJ Ryan, Karlee Huges, O'Connell Boss-Walker, Daria Olney, Max Howard, Bella Hayden, Sophie Weber and Jaxon Corby.

MEANWHILE, planning for this year's Oberon Masonic Debutante Ball is continuing.

The ball will be held at the Oberon RSL Club on Friday, September 17 and there are still places available for young women planning to make their debut this year.

There will be seven practice nights for debs and their partners in the lead-up to the ball with the first to be held at the RSL on Sunday, August 1 from 6pm.

Musician Chloe Maxwell will provide the entertainment on the night for debutantes, their partners and guests and the debs will be presented to the Worshipful Master of Lodge Oberon 355 and the Grand Master's representative.

For more information, contact organiser Terry Boyce on 0400 204 082.