Heroes of corporate Melbourne raised an extraordinary $1.719 million in support of Australia’s true superheroes – children with cancer – at The Million Dollar Lunch.
The 12th annual event, which raises funds for the Children’s Cancer Foundation, began with a ‘BANG! KAPOW! BOOM!’ as The Million Dollar Lunch superhero dancers set the scene for a spectacular day, hosted by Helen Kapalos and Karl Stefanovic.
The Foundation’s Ambassador, Kate Langbroek, spoke of her son’s treatment for leukaemia, followed by Marisa and Fabian Rosin, who shared a personal tribute to their son’s beautiful, funny but short life. Marcus, their superhero (and now that of all The Million Dollar Lunch guests), bravely battled a rare brain cancer for five years, but ultimately lost his fight in 2014.
The Million Dollar Lunch guests were entertained and captivated by a stellar line-up of exclusive performances from two world-class musicians – Vance Joy and Jon Stevens – and comedian Dave Hughes.
Guests enjoyed an impressive menu with the entrée created by Sean Tan, Chef de Cuisine at Nobu, the main course by Crown Executive Chef Kelly Jackson, and the dessert by Crown Executive Pastry Chef at Crown Melbourne Hari Unterrainer. Crown Resorts generously hosted the event and through their support and that of their suppliers delivered the event at no cost to the Foundation.
The Million Dollar Lunch attracted more than 600 of Australia’s most influential leaders including the Chief Executive of the AFL Gillon McLachlan and Patron of the Foundation, Chairman Jeremy Smith, Treasurer Tim Pallas MP, Shadow Treasurer Michael O’Brien MP, business leaders including Heloise Pratt AM, Leigh Clifford AO, Radek Sali, James Sutherland, Lewis Martin, Will and Jono Deague, Ross Savas, Ishan Ratnam, Peter Crinis, Frank and Sharon Van Haandel, Michael and Sue Gudinski, Gerry Ryan OAM and other VIP’s including Ricky Ponting AO, Lauren Phillips, Jane Kennedy, Anthony Callea and Tim Campbell, George Calombaris.
More than $15 million has been raised by The Million Dollar Lunch community since its launch in 2005 – the success of the event is crucial to the ongoing work of the Foundation, which funds programs in cancer research, clinical care and family support.
Thank you to our Cornerstone Partners – Crown Resorts, AFL, Qantas and Volvo and CrownBet – The Million Dollar Lunch Committee, Grand Auction, Volvo Premium Raffle and Mystery Envelope donors, suppliers, volunteers and our many supporters for your generosity.
