With only a few tickets for Lutheran Care’s 2023 Gala Dinner still remaining, those still thinking about booking their ticket or table are urged to get a wriggle on to avoid missing out on one of the best nights on Adelaide’s social calendar.
Taking place at Adelaide Oval on Friday, 10 November and proudly sponsored by LLL Australia, the Gala Dinner will be a party with purpose, featuring three superb courses prepared by award-winning chef Philip Pope, premium wine and beer, live entertainment, and – most importantly – the chance to raise money to support South Australians in need.
A highlight of this year’s event will be a special appearance by internationally renowned Adelaide artist Andrew Baines. Guests will have a rare opportunity to see the somewhat reclusive artist at work, as he brings to life one of his iconic surreal artworks, live on stage. The completed artwork will be one of two Baines paintings to be auctioned on the night.
The second artwork, again generously donated by the artist, was inspired by the ‘Behind the Guise of Homelessness’ living art installation, which Baines and Lutheran Care partnered on in January 2023. The highly publicised event saw several high-profile South Australians painted in gold and positioned in Rundle Mall to raise awareness of homelessness and challenge stereotypes around who can be impacted. With a few of the ‘golden alumni’ expected to be in the room, there is sure to be some fierce competition around this unique auction item.
Other highlights of the live and silent auctions will be:
- a holiday to Queensland’s Palm Cove,
- a luxury Aldinga Beach getaway,
- an exquisite diamond necklace,
- Swarovski crystal earrings,
- and a Port Power AFL guernsey signed by the 2023 team,
with more items still to be announced.
Phil Harris of Harris Real Estate will again volunteer his time as auctioneer following his 2021 Gala Dinner appearance. Guests will also have a chance to win a bottle of premium wine through the Wine Wall raffle.
The soundtrack on the night will be provided by exciting Adelaide band Motel Music, fronted by Ash Gale, best known from the ARIA-charting The Sundance Kids. You can check out their instagram, here.
The MC will be media personality and SAFM breakfast host Rebecca Morse, who as a decorated former journalist, and an experienced and personable presenter, is set to bring some class and fun to the event.
The Gala Dinner is the major fundraiser for Lutheran Care’s Emergency Relief program, which supports local families and individuals in crisis through services such as food, blankets, clothing and vouchers, and referrals to other Lutheran Care wraparound supports. These complementary programs, such as:
- financial counselling,
- personal and relationships counselling,
- homelessness services, and
- parenting programs,
seek to empower clients with the information, tools, skills, strategies and confidence they need to improve their own lives in the longer term.
Lutheran Care’s Chief Executive Officer, Rohan Feegrade, recalls: “We held our last Gala Dinner in 2021 as we were coming out of pandemic restrictions”.
“At that time, social distancing was in effect, and we were unable to have a dancefloor or move freely throughout the venue,” Mr Feegrade says.
“Despite this, it was an excellent celebration; our guests came out to enjoy themselves and we managed to raise a staggering figure of over $200,00 for our Emergency Relief program.
“This year, we trust our guests will make the most of the dance floor, and the opportunities to chat, network and mingle with each other, whilst celebrating the generous spirits of Adelaide’s businesspeople and the wider community.
“We hope the excellent range of auction items we’ve put together will rally great excitement, however, by simply purchasing a ticket to come along to this event, our guests become important partners in our work supporting vulnerable South Australians. We are so grateful for everyone’s support, particularly in this cost of living crisis.”
Lutheran Care’s Head of Philanthropy, Sandy Davis, was similarly blown away by the strong corporate support received.
“We know that many households are facing financial pressures right now, but many corporates are also experiencing difficulties because of increasing costs and interest rates. That’s why we are just so grateful for the support we have received for our Gala Dinner.
“Our principal sponsor, LLL Australia, has given very generously to help us run this event and we sincerely thank them.
“Our other sponsors and donors of auction items have also had to dig deep to support us, but they have done because they believe in the work we do at Lutheran Care and see the need for our services in their own community.
“The event program and auctions are coming together beautifully and it’s set to be a brilliant evening; and I can’t wait to celebrate with everyone at Adelaide Oval on 10 November.”
For more information or to book, click here.
