
The RANZCO Eye Foundation showed it knows how to throw a good party, with a star-studded 10th anniversary dinner in Sydney in June.
The event had an adventure theme, with explorer Mr. Tim Jarvis AM, speaking to guests about his polar exploits.
CEO of the Ranzco Eye Foundation, Ms. Jacinta Spurrett, said the annual event was a “fabulous opportunity to raise funds for ongoing projects as well as thank the many supporters whose generosity helps to make these crucial programs possible”.
The RANZCO Eye Foundation, a non-profit organisation founded by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists and the Ophthalmic Research Institute of Australia (ORIA), has provided close to AUD$10 million in funding over the past 10 years for research, development and community awareness programs in Australia and in the region.
The RANZCO Eye Foundation…has provided close to AUD$10 million in funding over the past 10 years for research
All funds raised at the gala dinner will go to towards the many projects The RANZCO Eye Foundation currently has underway, including projects in The Kimberley, Myanmar and East Timor. During the evening, the RANZCO Eye Foundation’s chairman Mr. Peter Keel announced a new AUD$250,000 sponsorship commitment from Bayer Australia.
As guest speaker, Mr. Jarvis, who is regarded as one of the world’s most inspiring modern day adventurers and polar explorers, updated guests on his plans for next year – to lead a team to recreate the legendary open boat voyage of polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton.
“Just like much of the work undertaken by The RANZCO Eye Foundation, I’m sure my latest expedition will once again open my eyes to a new found appreciation of the depth of human emotion in terms of endurance, survival and the beauty of life before us all,” Mr. Jarvis said.
The master of ceremonies for the event, held in Sydney’s Darling Harbour on 15 June, was news presenter Ms. Sandra Sully, while ARIA-award winning singer/songwriter Mr. Damien Leith provided the night’s entertainment.
“We were thrilled to have such a fabulous array of Australian talent on hand to help us celebrate over 10 years of supporting eye research and sustainable eye care programs in communities both in Australia and internationally, Ms. Spurrett said.