On 23 October Blackwood 8 celebrated their 4th annual 'Celebration of Hope' Gala Ball in support of the Cure For Life Foundation. The 210 guest were impressed by our guest speakers, Dr Kerrie McDonald, Head of the Neuro-oncology Department, Lowy Cancer Research Centre at UNSW, and Jamie Bunn and his family, including Ella, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2007 and is now doing exceptionally well. The highlight of the night was the Regent String Quartet and music by Dean and Carruthers. There was furious bidding for a number of silent and live auction items including a holiday to Port Douglas, 5 nights in Fiji, a painting by Caz and an original voting card signed by Nelson Mandela. Overall, the function raised $40,000 which was a fantastic result.
2010 'Celebration of Hope' Gala Ball
Walk For Life 2010
Support Blackwood 8 - Share with our local community in raising awareness about Brain Cancer and be part of the Worldwide Walk 4 Life as part of International Brain Tumour Awareness Week (21 – 27 October)
All Monies raised to support "Cure For Life Foundation" – advancing brain tumour treatment and research.
When: Friday 10th September 2010
Start: Heritage Golf and Country Club Cafe – Chirnside Park
End: Heritage Cafe for a cuppa, a chance to recover and catch up with friends
Time: 9.30 am (approximately 1 hour walk) or 10.00 am for those wanting a shorter walk option
Cost: $10 per person includes raffle ticket
For more information, please contact Henriette »
2009 'Celebration of Hope' Gala Ball
A total of 330 people attended the 2009 Gala Ball at the Croydon Golf Club, Yering Medows. It was an ideal night to enjoy the beautiful surroundings in the Yarra Valley, with the Golf Course having magnificent views from the Club House where the function was held. Guests enjoyed great food, refreshments and service from the staff at the Croydon Golf Club.
Dr Charlie Teo's, the founder of the Cure For Life Foundation, presentation was a highlight of the 2009 event. We were very privileged to have him donating his time in attending our event and many of the guests had the opportunity to meet, talk and dance with him. The way in which he conveyed such vital information about brain cancer research, prevention and progress towards a cure was both informative and challenging for all who were present.
There was frantic bidding for a number of key auction items including a signed cricket bat from Bill Lawry and Richie Benue, presented personally by Bill Lawry, a signed guitar from band members of AC/DC, a range of sporting memorabilia, original art work and accommodation packages. In addition, there were a large variety of silent auction items sold on the night catering for a range of interests, experiences and budgets.
Once again international guest, Phil Readman, and his band entertained the crowd with live music well into the night.
Ivano, a professional cartoonist provided unique charactatures for guests who preferred not to join those on the dance floor.
We were very proud to hand over a cheque to the Cure For Life Foundation of $47,000. This is a major achievement which raises the total amount contributed to cancer research to over $120,000 in the past 3 years.
2008 'Celebration of Hope' Gala Ball
Following a HUGE effort by so many people, the second annual 'Celebration of Hope' Gala fundraising event was a fantastic night! Held at the Hertiage Golf and Country Club, 250 guests were entertained by Greg Champion and Phil Readman with his live band.
Professor Jonathon Cebon from the Ludwig Institute attended with news about the progress being made in cancer research. Many silent and live auction items were on offer and we were able to raise $47,800 which was presented to the Ludwig Institute For Cancer Research.
2007 ‘Celebration of Hope’ Gala Ball
In 2007, we held our first Gala Cocktail Evening, with hopes of raising $10,000. This evening far exceeded our expectations, and due to the incredible generosity of many people, we were able to present The Ludwig Institute For Cancer Research with a cheque for $35,000.
A total of 190 people attended the night at All Smiles function centre, enjoying Phil Readman with his band providing live music, silent and live auction items, great food and company.
A highlight of the night was Professor Jonathon Cebon from the Ludwig Institute who came as the guest speaker on the evening, informing guests of the progress being made by the research scientists at the Institute, giving hope that together we can make a difference in contributing to prevention, treatment and ultimately cure for many forms of cancer.

