Francesca Packer, Ian Thorpe attend Sydney’s Gold Dinner fundraiser: pictures
Sydney’s social elite have dressed in their finery for one of the biggest fundraising events on the city’s social calender. See the photos.
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Olympic great Ian Thorpe put on a brave face as he stepped out at his first public event since the untimely death of his former partner.
Thorpe posed for photographers on a media wall at The Venue in Alexandria as a guest at the 25th annual Gold Dinner fundraiser.
His former partner of four years, businessman Ryan Channing, died in Bali last week at the age of just 32 with the cause of death as yet unknown.
Thorpe has not spoken since the tragic news broke although his management representatives have said his thoughts are with Channing’s family.
The Gold Dinner fundraiser meanwhile is one of the biggest events of its kind on the Sydney social calendar.
It raises funds for the Sydney Children’s Hospital Foundation and was held on Wednesday night at The Venue in Alexandria with the aim of reaching up to $5 million in donations.
Francesca Packer is on the organising committee and said she was determined to carry on her family legacy.
The granddaughter of late media mogul Kerry Packer says philanthropy is in her genes.
Her grandmother, Ros, in particular, and mother Gretel, have long devoted their time, and large chunks of their wealth, to supporting various charities and arts organisations.
“Growing up in my family, philanthropy is just a part of life,” the 27-year-old niece of James Packer told The Daily Telegraph.
“The health of our community, both mental and physical, is absolutely paramount. So with that in mind, ensuring that children receive the best healthcare possible is not just important, it’s an investment in our collective future.”
The Gold Dinner is co-chaired by mother and son duo Linda and Josh Penn. Also on the organising committee are Alina Barlow, Monica Tu, Earl Evans, Francesca Duncan and Benita Kam.
“This is my seventh year attending the Gold Dinner, and over the years I have been lucky enough to see up close the amazing work that has been achieved by the Foundation in general, and specifically by the various committees for the event,” Francesca said, attending with her grandmother.
“It is wonderful watching everyone come together for this great cause, and after 25 years, it’s bigger and better than ever. Here’s to the next 25 years.”
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Originally published as Francesca Packer, Ian Thorpe attend Sydney’s Gold Dinner fundraiser: pictures
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