POST FALLS - Halloween isn't celebrated in Australia, which is why Brian "Kiwi" Kirk sees it as a "novelty."

He also sees it as a great opportunity to throw together an adult fun night to raise funds for local families of children with cancer.

That's why Kirk, a Post Falls Lions Club member, has spent the past year organizing Saturday's Halloween Extravaganza from 6 p.m. to midnight at the Greyhound Park and Event Center.

The Post Falls and Coeur d'Alene Lions clubs are coordinating on the event, which includes a magic show, silent and live auctions, a barbecue dinner, dancing and music by Cold Shot.

The fundraiser will benefit the Sophie's Sluggers Foundation, which is named after Post Falls child Sophie Medlock, who has battled cancer. The funds will be used to assist families with cancer-related expenses.

Cancer has struck close to home for Kirk. He has battled prostate cancer and his first wife died of breast cancer. He's also a neighbor to the Medlocks.

When Kirk saw an adult wearing a Halloween costume in a store with Halloween still days away, he learned adults like to have fun with the seasonal experience, too, and not just on Oct. 31.

That spurred Kirk to organize the Halloween Extravaganza.

There will be 12 live auction items, including vacation packages and sports memorabilia.

Prizes will be awarded to the attendees with the top costumes.

"If you come without a costume, you'll probably stand out," Kirk said.

Kirk said his goal is to raise $50,000, but he's also being realistic with the event in its first year, and realizes that mark may be difficult to reach.

"I plan to do this every year," Kirk said. "Let's face it: children with cancer is not going to go away."

The event costs $35 per person or $250 for a table of eight.

Tickets can be purchased by calling Kirk at 262-6836. Other tickets, if any are left, will be sold at the door.