News: 4 March 2022
With all of our major fundraising gala events sidelined for two years, Covid posed an enormous threat to our organisation. But as our name suggests, Challenge was ready to rise to the occasion. We were versatile and resilient, adapting to meet the demands of the moment in the digital landscape a pandemic demanded.
With that said, times were still tough, and the virtual realm of events cannot compare to the authenticity and connection that is shared at physical, in-person events. It was the handshakes, the friendships, and the emotion we so dearly missed for such a long period of time. That all changed on Monday, 28 February 2022. Challenge made its return to the fundraising field with our 29th Robert Allenby Golf Day and Cocktail Party and what a return it was.
The weather leading up to the event was looking a little ominous, forecasting rain and clouds for most of the day. But the weather gods knew this was an occasion not to be dampened, warding off the rain to ensure a smooth day on the greens at the endlessly impressive Yarra Yarra Golf Club. Everyone came along enthused, all bursting with excitement to return to an event that has been cherished by our community for so many years – even if they weren’t swinging their clubs to the same level of expertise two years prior 😉.
Though the day is all about fun and bringing our community together, we always recognise the day’s best group of golfers. A big congratulations to ONE68 Team 2. You all sure tore up the greens!
After a wonderful day at Yarra Yarra, guests then dressed up for a cocktail evening at Aviary – Crown’s event space which offers a rooftop experience with landscaped gardens and uninterrupted views over the Melbourne City skyline. We chit-chatted over canapes and beverages; and were entertained by the magnificent Kathleen Di Rago, Ross Wilson and Tom Gleisner.
An enormous thank you to our incredible team of volunteers, who helped out throughout the day and/or night. We cannot tell you how grateful we are for your time, energy and commitment to Challenge.
A big thank you to golfing sponsors, Yarra Yarra Golf Club and Mizuno for their amazing support of the golf day. To our evening sponsors, Crown, Encore and in particular, LaManna Supermarket and Fleischer Cakes Malvern, you were all instrumental in making the event a great success.
Thank you to Stacey, our new Fundraising and Projects Lead, well done on bringing this event all together in these Covid times. Another big thank you to Ian Wood for his endless time and devotion towards the organisation of this event – you are a friend we are lucky to have.
Finally, to Robert, who was unfortunately unable to attend, your commitment to the children and families we support is unwavering and I know you are excited about the 30th Anniversary event which is confirmed for 5 December 2022. We can’t wait to celebrate this special milestone with you.