Last week the annual fundraiser the ‘True Colours Long Lunch’ was held at the Narrows Landing. It was a great success with feedback from those who attended that is was a hugely enjoyable day. True Colours has been reliant on this fundraiser providing funds to continue the valued work of supporting seriously ill children and their families. There are of course many people that contribute to making this day so successful.
Deborah Mundy and Brian Hermann generously sponsor the event by providing the venue, the Narrows Landing; the gorgeous setting is the perfect space for such an event. Deborah’s administration staff, Amanda Caldwell and Greg at Caroline Eve support in many ways contributing to the professionalism on the day.
As everyone arrived and settled in for the afternoon Dr Bob and the Englishman (Dave Graham & Stephen Parkinson) played their music, singing and entertaining the crowd. Mark Bunting our MC kept things running smoothly with his banter alongside his professionalism keeping us on time… so we didn’t miss the critical race – the Melbourne Cup at the end of the day!
The guest speakers Michele A’Court and Jeremy Elwood were a hit as we listened to their quick and witty repartee. They were sponsored by Lugtons Ltd; Barraclough & Associates Ltd and KPMG; their generous support adding to the success of the day.
The Calcutta kept us on the edge of our seats with Tim Rodwell our auctioneer racing through the horses! Campbell Turner then took over auctioneering as some magnificent auction items were bid on; the tone of the day turning serious as individuals competed against each other to become the successful owners of such amazing prizes. The weekend stay at the Hilton, Lake Taupo was popular, the bonus being the use of Waikato Motor Group’s sexy Peugeot RCZ sports car in the package!
The Hillcrest High students waited on tables under the supervision of Narrow’s Landing staff making sure wine glasses were filled and meals delivered with grace and care. Libby Higson moved around the tables taking photos and capturing the magic of the day.
A highlight of the day is the Polished Image Beauty Therapy Fashion in the Field Event with Faye Williamson-Ward, the sponsor of this event, and guest Tracy Martin judging the best dressed woman and gentleman! This year the competition was challenging as everyone dressed up and it was a sight to behold! Congratulations to Fiona Schroeder who won the Fashion in the Field title and Anna Campbell who won the best hat! And the gentleman’s prize went to Kerry Hopper – well done!
Shirley Reynolds and the Westpac team once again took care of the busy financial transactions! All who attended knew they were in expert and safe hands; their support certainly makes life easier for the True Colours team!
There are many people who have sponsored True Colours by donating Auction items, Mystery Envelopes, food, wine, their time and expertise. The Long Lunch initially was the brain child of Annah Stretton who then handed the baton to Diane O’Sullivan and the ‘Friends of True Colours’. Due to family circumstances Diane stepped back from the coordinators role, although remaining very much involved, and handed the reins over to Pam Lugton.
Pam has worked hard to coordinate the event and the success exceeds far more than the $48,000 raised on the day. The accomplishment encompasses the enjoyment of the day, the networking and connecting with others. It is the fun and lightness when life has been tough for many this year, it is the recognition that support for seriously ill children, young people and their families is essential.
Everybody knew and understood, simply by their attendance on the day, that they were raising significant funds for the support of the children and families that True Colours cares for who live with serious illness. Children, young people and their families often let us know how important it is to have support as they try and navigate their way through the emotional turmoil of serious illness.
A 15 year old with a chronic lung disease lying in her hospital bed shared with me, “Thank you for coming… I don’t ask for help very often, sometimes I get scared and I need to talk to someone. Mum and Dad worry about me so I don’t want them to worry…. Thank you”.
On behalf of the Trust, staff and Friends of True Colours, I would like to thank everyone who contributed to making the day an amazing success. Because of you, this important work continues; walking alongside children, young people and their families in the most difficult of times. Thank you!
Cynthia Ward CEO/Nurse Specialist
