The event is hosted by Pall Mall hair and beauty salon Jools for Jim on November 27.

Spirit import Joy Burke was getting ready for the big event with a blow dry at the salon.

The Arizona native, who made the move to Bendigo two months ago, said the Spirit was grateful to have the city’s support.

“The community completely backs up the team. All of our home games have been packed and I feel so much love,” she said.

“When I was being recruited, I was told the number one priority is community engagement and I was told that would be a big part of my role here; not just to perform and be a basketball player but to be an ambassador for the Spirit.”

One of Burke’s favourite things about her new home is its coffee culture.

“I love the coffee shops; I’ve gotten really into coffee here,” she said.

Burke said she was enjoying the slower pace of life and community vibe that Bendigo offers.

“I grew up as a city girl so I like the small town feel here, even though it isn’t that small,” she said.

“It’s a bit slower and it’s fun to go grocery shopping and run into someone you know.”

Jools for Jim owner Jill Cantwell said the evening would give Bendigonians an opportunity to show their appreciation for some of the city’s best athletes. 

“This event is a celebration of the elite athletes who represent our city and a chance to meet the team in a relaxed environment,” she said.

“We want to show the Bendigo Spirit team how important they are to Bendigo, provide financial assistance and for our community to come and say hello.”

The event will run November 27 from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at Jools for Jim on Pall Mall.

Tickets are $25 and can be bought online or in store. 

Money raised will be donated to the Bendigo Spirit.

Those who can’t make it but still want to contribute are encouraged to buy a ‘virtual attendee’ ticket. 

Go to www.joolsforjim.com/bendigo-spirit for more information.