Gatto’s inaugural charity gala for autism raises more than $2m

Mick Gatto is “over the moon” at the amount raised at his VIP gala event, which was attended by Vince Colosimo, George Calombaris, Dr Charlie Teo and other celebrities.

Mick and Cheryl Gatto at their Equal Access For Autism gala event. Picture: Supplied.

Mediator Mick Gatto has raised $2 million for his plan to build autistic-friendly indoor playgrounds for adolescents on the spectrum.

Mr Gatto, who works in arbitration, hosted a gala event at the weekend for Equal Access For Autism (EAFA), a not-for-profit organisation formed by himself and wife Cheryl last year.

Their grandson Dominic is autistic.

The 1000 guests at the fundraiser included legendary US boxing commentator Colonel Bob Sheridan, neurosurgeon Dr Charlie Teo, and actor Vince Colosimo.

“We raised $2 million-plus,” Mr Gatto said on Monday. “We are over the moon. There was no negativity, it was all positive.”

Legendary boxing commentator Colonel Bob Sheridan and Bernie Balmer at the Equal Access For Autism fundraiser. Picture: Supplied.

George Calombaris and Richard Wilkins at the Equal Access For Autism fundraiser. Picture: Supplied.

Mick Gatto was consoled by his wife Cheryl when he became emotional while talking about their grandson Dominic at the Equal Access For Autism fundraiser. Picture: Supplied.

Sooshi Mango at the Equal Access For Autism fundraiser. Picture: Supplied.

Comedian Paul Martell at the Equal Access For Autism fundraiser. Picture: Supplied.

Kate Ceberano at the Equal Access For Autism fundraiser. Picture: Supplied.

Damian Gatto, Mick Gatto and Vince Colosimo at the Equal Access For Autism fundraiser. Picture: Supplied

He said the EAFA board, which is chaired by United Firefighters Union secretary Peter Marshall, will meet to discuss how the money will be spent.

“My aim would be to build autistic-friendly indoor playgrounds. but ultimately it’s up to the board. They’ll lobby governments and councils, which is not my forte. I just fill the joint (for fundraising events) and leave the rest to them,” Mr Gatto said.

Mr Gatto became emotional when talking at the event about his beloved grandson, who was named after Mick. “We would not change him for the world,” Mr Gatto said. “He is so loving with pats and kisses on demand, and we hope we can raise awareness about autism and help Domi and others to enjoy equal access in their lives … where differences are accepted, and their need are met.”

Sheridan, known globally as “the voice of boxing,” paid for his own flight from San Fransisco to attend Gatto’s autism fundraiser. Sheridan has called iconic fights, including Muhammad Ali’s Rumble in the Jungle match against George Foreman, and the Thrilla in Manila, which saw Ali take on Joe Frazier.

Celebrity chef George Calombaris curated a three course meal for the event, and comedians Sooshi Mango, Paul Martell, and singer Kate Ceberano entertained the room. TV host Richard Wilkins served as master of ceremonies.

The fundraiser, at the Hyatt Essendon Fields, was staged by Perfect Events, and car dealership boss Bobby Zagame donated a brand new Alfa Romeo to the cause.

Charity auction items included shares in a racehorse, and a painting by Indigenous artist Stan Dryden with contributions from five kids including Mr Gatto’s grandson, Dominic.