31st Robert Allenby Golf Day and Gala Dinner

News: 12 December 2023

It is important to take a moment to appreciate that the Robert Allenby Golf Day and Gala Dinner has made an extraordinary impact on the Challenge organisation. This year, we celebrated 31 years of the event, an amazing milestone.

Kicking off the day at the breathtaking Yarra Yarra Golf Club, our guests tried their swing on a challenging course paired with picture-perfect weather. The fairways witnessed remarkable teamwork as groups came together to embrace the essence of the event. Yet, victory belonged to a select few, with this year’s top three teams embodying the spirit of unity: Martec Constructions in third place, One68 (group 1) securing second place, and the ultimate winners, who were very big grinners, Rhino Bins. Congratulations to all participants, with notable accolades to the first-place winners, each taking home a treasured Mizuno set including irons, driver, fairway wood, hybrid, and a tour bag, as well as a custom fitting experience – all thanks to Mizuno and Anthony Gercovich for their ongoing commitment to Challenge.

Following a wonderful day on the greens, the festivities unfolded at Crown’s Palladium. The night treated guests to a delightful array of cuisines and refreshing drinks, with the charismatic Tom Gleisner, Challenge Chairman and MC for the evening, guiding the proceedings with his customary flair.

The entertainment soared to new heights with a sensational performance by the talented Kate Ceberano, who showed us why she’s such an Aussie treasure.

The evening’s heartbeat was in the generosity of our guests, notably seen throughout the live and silent auctions. With an irresistible array of items and prizes, wallets emerged willingly for a worthy cause. One Live Auction item stole the spotlight – a golf day with Andrew Gaze and the ever-entertaining Andy Lee. As bids leaped from person to person, the crowd erupted in laughter as Andy Lee, in the flesh, jumped between tables, creating an electric hype around the room.

Though Robert Allenby – our dear friend and International Patron – was regrettably absent this year, the night retained its special charm, a testament to the enduring legacy of this remarkable man. We cannot express our eternal gratitude for Rob’s unwavering support.

In reflecting on the event’s success, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors and supporters, the backbone of our achievements. To our dedicated volunteers, your passion and commitment are truly commendable, and without your enthusiasm, this event would not be possible.

The 2023 Robert Allenby Golf Day and Gala Dinner was a resounding success, and we look forward to seeing all our supporters and friends again in 2024. Thank you for being an integral part of our mission to support children and families living with cancer.