Despite the challenging economic times, many local businesses, councils and community organisations attended and generously donated to support Lifeline Macarthur and Western Sydney at the 60th Anniversary Diamond Ball on 17 June.
The Diamond Ball, held at Holiday Inn Warwick Farm and celebrating the 60th Anniversary of Lifeline in Australia, was organised by the highly honoured June Young OAM (dubbed “the Bradman of community volunteers”) and well-respected local businesswoman Sue-Lei Hunt-Mingay.
The Ball was MCed by Tony Hogan and featured musical performances by Claire Abrakmanouv and Akinga.
Tina Rendell-Thornton, Chair of Lifeline Macarthur and Western Sydney, said Lifeline was there when people were at their darkest hour.
She said, “In the last year Lifeline Macarthur and Western Sydney has answered over 120,000 calls from people needing someone to talk to.
“Through our suicide prevention and outreach services we actively engage people in places that are comfortable and familiar.
“We provide financial counselling services, outreach activities and support to individuals and community groups, access to suicide prevention awareness training, and ongoing support for people who have attempted suicide in the past.
“Through our training courses we provide education to the community, to businesses and to professionals.”
She said Lifeline did all those things because deep personal crises took nine lives in Australia every day, came in different ways and affected people from all walks of life.
Ms Hunt-Mingay spoke about the impact of her late father, Harry Hunt OAM, a visionary businessman, philanthropist and community leader, who supported many local charities, including Lifeline Macarthur and Western Sydney.
She said, “It was instilled in me that in order to succeed, you must give back and align with the community in some way. I truly believe my blessings in life and business stem from this simple philosophy: to always support those in your community. Tonight, I encourage each of you to consider what and how you are contributing to your community, as this will truly enrich your life and those around you.”
As a testament to her late father’s legacy, Ms Hunt-Mingay announced the Hunt Family Community Foundation, where Harry Hunt’s hard work would continue to support the community and all those in need.
Lifeline Macarthur and Western Sydney is grateful to the following Diamond Ball Sponsors: Diamond Sponsor, the Hunt Family Community Foundation; Gold Sponsor, Fairfield RSL; Silver Sponsors, Marsdens Law Group and Liverpool City Council; and Bronze Sponsor, Liverpool Catholic Club.
Pictured cutting the 60th Anniversary cake are Tina Rendell-Thornton, Sybra Hunt, Veronica Macdonald, Lucy Lei Mingay and Sue-Lei Hunt Mingay.
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