2026 Annual Gala FundraiserVoices of Resilience Annual Gala 2026
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Lifeline Receives a Call

Hello Friends

Welcome Everyone to Our 2026 Lifeline Macarthur & Western Sydney Gala Event

Veronica Macdonald

It is with deep gratitude and great pride that I welcome you to the digital program for our 2026 Annual Fundraiser — the Voices of Resilience Gala.

Over the past year, our region has continued to face significant social, economic, and emotional pressures. Yet through every challenge, one truth has remained constant: the extraordinary resilience shown by the people who reach out to Lifeline, and the unwavering dedication of the Crisis Supporters who answer their call. This shared strength — caller and supporter together — is at the heart of Lifeline’s mission.

  • 8.6 Australians die every day by suicide.
  • 75% of those who take their own life are male.
  • Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians between the ages of 15 and 44.
  • People in rural populations are 2 times more likely to take their life by suicide.
  • An estimated 1 in 3 of Australians reported feeling lonely.

Lifeline is here to Listen

Every day, individuals across Macarthur and Western Sydney find the courage to pick up the phone and ask for help. That single moment is an act of resilience. On the other end of the line, our trained volunteers and staff offer calm, compassion, and connection. Their commitment ensures that no one has to face their darkest moments alone.

This year, demand for our services has continued to grow. Our Crisis Support team has responded to thousands of calls for help, providing lifesaving support to people experiencing emotional distress, financial hardship, relationship breakdown, and suicidal thoughts. Each conversation is a reminder of the vital role Lifeline plays in strengthening the wellbeing of our community.

Beyond the phones, our community programs and services have continued to expand. We have delivered mental health education, training, and domestic and family violence awareness workshops across our region. This includes bereavement groups, Eclipse support groups, and a new Aftercare Virtual Hub — aimed at equipping individuals, workplaces, and community groups with the skills to recognise distress and support those around them. These initiatives are essential in building a safer, more connected community.

Our Retail Stores and Distribution Centre have once again played a crucial role in funding our services, promoting sustainability, and creating meaningful opportunities for volunteers. Their contribution, combined with the dedication of our growing volunteer workforce, continues to be a cornerstone of our organisation.

None of this would be possible without the generosity of people like you. Through fundraising events, grants, donations, corporate partnerships, and your presence here tonight, you help ensure that our services remain accessible to the nearly 3 million people we support across Macarthur and Western Sydney. Your contribution strengthens our frontline, supports our volunteers, and ensures that every voice seeking help can be heard.

As we gather for the Voices of Resilience Gala, we honour the courage of help seekers, the dedication of our Crisis Supporters, and the collective strength of a community that stands together. Your support tonight helps us continue building a future where every person feels valued, supported, and connected.

On behalf of Lifeline Macarthur and Western Sydney, thank you for your compassion, your generosity, and your belief in our mission. Together, we are creating a community where resilience is shared — and where no one has to face their darkest moments alone.

We hope you enjoy our 2026 Gala event.

Veronica Macdonald

CEO • Lifeline Macarthur & Western Sydney

Thank You to Our Sponsors

We Couldn't Do This Without You

Fairfield RSL

Fairfield RSL

The Diamond Resilience

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Hunt Family Community Foundation

Hunt Family Community Foundation

The Majestic Top Hat

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Marsdens Law Group

The Marquise of Pearls

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Liverpool Catholic Club

Liverpool Catholic Club

The Marquise of Pearls

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InvictusX

InvictusX

The Marquise of Pearls

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Wests Group Macarthur

Wests Group Macarthur

The Elegant Tiara

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Cameron Brae Group

Cameron Brae Group

The Elegant Tiara

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Absolutely Fabulous Events

Absolutely Fabulous Events

In Kind Sponsor

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Magic Effects Digital

Magic Effects Digital

In Kind Sponsor

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Holdfast Distillery

Hold Fast Distillery

In Kind Sponsor

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Stonemeadow Photography

Stonemeadow Photography

In Kind Sponsor

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Raw Exposure Photography

Raw Cadence Photography

In Kind Sponsor

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Splash Colour Imaging

Splash Colour Imaging

In Kind Sponsor

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Prize Lists

Live Auction, Silent Auction & Raffle Prizes

Live Auction

Item NoITEMDETAILSDONATED BY VALUE $ STARTING BID
1Exclusive 2026 Lifeline Gala Limited Edition #1 HoldFast Distillery Vodka BottleTonight, we have a limited number of our exclusive Event Vodka Bottles from HoldFast Distillery. This is the first bottle!HoldFast Distillery$80.00$30.00
2Limited Edition McDonald's Merchandise PackLIMITED EDITION McDonald's Merchandise Package includes 1 x Hamburglar Robe, 1 x Macca's fleece blanket, 1 x Pair of Fluffy Slippers + $20 McDonald's VouchersMcDonald's Macarthur$205.00$100.00
34K Drive Day, Sydney Motorsport Park, Eastern CreekThis exclusive invitation-only Drive Day is scheduled for Friday 14 August which includes 2 x complimentary tickets, 2 passenger fast laps with a professional driver in your own car and on track guidance, corporate suite access, delicious lunch and refreshments - Value $10004K Automotive Group$1,000.00$400.00
4Wyndham Hotels: Summer GetawaysPort Macquarie Summer Getaway for 5 or 7 days at Flynn's Beach for up to 6 people in a 2 Bedroom Apartment OR Tropical Summer 7 Night Getaway at Mission Beach FNQ, for 2 people in DecemberJoanne Ling$2,500.00$500.00
5Wests Tigers autographed 2026 Football Jersey One off 2026 Signed Wests Tigers Football Club Jersey from the Multicultural Round in March 2026.Wests Tigers NRL Club$1,000.00$300.00
6Noosa Getaway for 2 people at Ocean Breeze Resort3-night stay at Ocean Breeze Resort, Noosa in a 1Bedroom Apartment, $250 Seasons Restaurant voucher & Return Airport TransfersLynne, Alan and Gareth from Ocean Breeze Resort$1,200.00$400.00

Silent Auction

Item NoITEMDETAILSDONATED BY VALUE $ STARTING BID
1Mercure Sydney Bankstown PackageCourvioisier Cognac with Mercure Sydney Bankstown Accommodation and Breakfast voucherMercure Sydney Bankstown$420.00$100.00
2X-Golf Macarthur PackageThe Classic Booth Bundle: Inc 2 hour SIM hire, 1 x Beer Tower or Bottle of Wine, 2 x Pizzas, plus 1 side food option, Up to 4 players and Buller Fine Old TawnyX-Golf Macarthur$270.00$100.00
3Piano Direction - Piano Tuning Service VoucherPiano Tuning Service Voucher In the Macarthur AreaPiano Direction$350.00$100.00
4William Inglis Hotel Staycation: Overnight Stay, Breakfast and Dinner package1 Night Stay for Two Guests in a Superior King Room at The William Inglis Hotel, Warwick Farm - inclusive of Breakfast and Complimentary Parking. Plus a $150 Restaurant voucher to spend in The Newmarket Room.William Inglis Hotel$500.00$200.00
5Camden Valley Inn Hotel Stay Voucher1 Night Stay in a King Spa Room located within the beautiful Camden Valley Inn groundsCamden Valley Inn$320.00$120.00
6Rydges Campbelltown Hotel Accommodation Gift PackageHotel Accommodation Package: Accommodation for 2 in an Executive Spa Suite plus $200 OTIS Dinner voucher, Breakfast, 1pm Late Check-outRydges Hotel Campbelltown$500.00$200.00
7Tim's Garden Centre, Campbelltown Basket Set$100 Voucher to spend at the popular Tim's Garden Centre, plus a Basket of Homemade Jams and Grasmere HoneyTim's Garden Centre and Kay Sidman$180.00$60.00
8ARC Eye Couture Cosmetic Tattooing; and Swarovski Jewellery PackageARC Eye Couture Cosmetic Tattooing; a Swarovski Jewellery Package; plus Bottle of LLMWS Dry GinARC Eye Couture and June Younge$900.00$100.00
9Lakeside Golf Club CamdenRound of Golf for 4 people at the newly refurbished greens at Camden Lakeside, inclusive of shared Carts Wests Group$340.00$100.00
10Pinot & Picasso Voucher and Bed Bath and Table Set$130 Voucher to a Pinot & Picasso Camden Experience; and Bed Bath and Table Set (2 hand towels & 2 bath towels)Pinot & Picasso, Camden$230.00$90.00
11Sally Quinnell MP Parliamentary Dinner VoucherStrangers Restaurant, Parliament House Sydney valued at $200 - Dinner for TwoSally Quinnell MP$200.00$90.00
12Wedgewood Butterfly Bloom Tea SetWedgewood Butterfly Bloom Tea Set - an exquisite Teapot, Creamer and Sugar Gift Set and 2 Tea Cup and Saucer set, plus a Brookfield House High Tea voucher for 2Veronica Macdonald and Shehara Viswanathan, Brookfield House Camden$1,140.00$400.00
13Cronulla Sharks: Captain's Run Meet and Greet + 4 x Reserved TicketsValid for a Captain's Run Training visit / meet & greet, plus 4 x Reserved Concourse seating tickets. Note: The training session visit and tickets are best used for the same game.Cronulla Sharks NRL Club$1,000.00$250.00
14Psychic Medium Reading and The Crystal Shop Package30 Minute Psychic-Medium Phone Reading with Sharona; plus a Crystal Shop Camden PackageSharona Psychic Medium and The Crystal Shop Camden$250.00$80.00
15Swans AFL Home Game PackageSwans AFL game Double Pass and Football, plus a bottle of The Famous Grouse Blended Scotch WhiskeySydney Swans AFL Club$200.00$80.00
16Akubra HatAuthentic Akubra Hat - pure fur felt Australian made size 61June Young$250.00$80.00
17Aperol Spritz Fun PackPerfect Aperol Spritz KitSue-Lei Hunt-Mingay$100.00$50.00
18Serenity Pilates 5 visit Voucher + Sparkling WinePilates 50 minute class in Smeaton Grange (5 visit) Voucher plus Tatachilla sparkling brut NV wineSerenity Pilates$150.00$50.00
19Serenity Pilates 5 visit Voucher + Sparkling WinePilates 50 minute class in Smeaton Grange (5 visit) voucher plus Tatachilla sparkling brut NV wineSerenity Pilates$150.00$50.00
20Framed GWS AFL Club Signed Jersey Framed GWS AFL Club signed Jersey GWS Giants AFL Club$1,000.00$250.00
21Exclusive & Private Psychic Reading for 10 people by Tracey-LeeEnjoy an exclusive private evening of personal psychic readings with 10 friends in your home.Tracey-Lee Pyschic$1,800.00$400.00
22Hamper Culture and QuiltHamper Culture Gourmet Food and Wine Package, and stunning handmade QuiltPeta Borg, Hamper Culture$250.00$80.00
23Alkalizer Café High Tea VoucherHigh Tea for 10 people at Alkalizer Cafe, CampbelltownAlkalizer, Shefali Pali$600.00$200.00
24Business Promotion / Branding Photography / Radio Advertising Company Package C91.3FM Radio Advertising package includes: 30 x 30 sec commercials, creative meeting campaign & a professionally written and produced 30 sec commercial by C91.3FM Radio Advertising; plus a Karma G Photograghy package including professional branding photography, headshots, and social media content tailored to your business.C91.3FM and Karma G Photography$3,800.00$500.00
25Swarovski PackageSwarovski HEXA Crystal Rose coloured bracelet, crystal princess cut earrings and foldable Duffle bagJune Young$250.00$100.00
26Brookfield House High Tea Pack for 2 people/Tea Taster BoxVoucher - Award-winning Brookfield House (Camden) High Tea for 2 people & Tea Gift Pack.Brookfield Tea House$270.00$100.00
27Mumm Champagne Gift PackMumm Champagne Gift PackSue-Lei Hunt-Mingay$150.00$50.00
28Waterford Marquis VaseWaterford Crystal Marquis VaseJune Young$150.00$50.00
29Home Fires BBQ Bundle The Fan Man $200 Voucher bundle with BBQ Pack plus a large 1.14L Chivas Regal Premium Scotch WhiskeyThe Fan Man and Sue-Lei Hunt-Mingay$350.00$100.00
30Estate Planning PackageEstate Planning Package inc standard Will, Enduring Power of Attorney, & Enduring Guardianship document plus LLMWS London Dry GinAmanda Olic - Lawgix, Wetherill Park$1,650.00$250.00
31Campbelltown Catholic Club - Jude's Brasserie Dinner & The CUBE Show Tickets PackageThe Cube Voucher - Show Tickets for Two people (Show of choice) PLUS $200 dining voucher at Jude's Brasserie at the Campbelltown Catholic Club's newest Restaurant.Campbelltown Catholic Club / The CUBE$300.00$100.00
32Sydney Beaches Scenic Flight for 3 peopleCurtis Aviation Joy Flight: A scenic flight over Sydney's beaches for 3 people from Camden Airport.Curtis Aviation$1,000.00$300.00
33South Coast Holiday House GetawaySneak away for this South Coast Mid Week Air Bnb Getaway at Jervis Bay. Excludes Christmas to New Years & January and travel to and from venue.Emania Fencing$900.00$250.00
34PhysioFit PackagePhysioFit Assessment, 5 Pass Pilates & a pair of Pilates socks - Moorebank StudioPhysio Fit$320.00$60.00
35Framed South Sydney Rabbitohs NRL Signed Jersey & Exclusive Rabbitohs ExperienceFramed 2024 South Sydney Rabbitohs NRL Club Signed Jersey plus Exclusive Game Day Rabbitohs Function. 6 Tickets to the Rabbitohs Churchill Function, Redeemable at either of our Allianz stadium home games. Enjoy a premium cocktail function with tapas style menu and quality drinks served. Mingle with past and present NRL stars and enjoy padded centre line seating for 6 people. ALSO signed by Jai Arrow!South Sydney Rabbitohs $2,000.00$500.00

Raffle Prizes

Item NoITEMDETAILSDONATED BY VALUE $
1Sapphire & Diamond Necklace10ct White Gold Ladies Pendant Centre Oval Cut London Party Sapphire plus Round Brilliant 0.50ct Cut Diamonds Claw Set NecklaceSybra Hunt / Atlas Jewellers Oran Park$9,730.00
2Blue Mountains Getaway2 nights stay at Whispering Pines Cottage, Family Pass to Scenic World Blue Mountains & The Blue Mountains Explorer Bus. Welcome Hamper Box (to be picked up on Gala night)Whispering Pines Cottages, Explorer Bus Blue Mountains & Scenic World $2,000.00
3RedBalloon Experience Gift Voucher$1000 RedBalloon Experience Gift VoucherLyn Ingham$1,000.00
Event ProgramVoices of Resilience Annual Gala 2026

Please Enjoy Your Evening

Lifeline Macarthur & Western Sydney acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live and work. We pay our deepest respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present, and emerging.

We acknowledge the Dharawal people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which our Smeaton Grange Head Office stands.

We acknowledge the Burramattagal people of the Dharug Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which our Parramatta office stands.

We acknowledge the Cabrogal clan of the Dharug Nation and the Dharawal people, whose lands we gather on tonight in Liverpool.

We recognise the enduring connection of all First Nations peoples to land, waters, culture, and community. We also acknowledge the ongoing pain and injustice experienced by our Indigenous brothers and sisters — suffering that we witness daily in our work and that continues to demand truth, healing, and justice.

  • Welcome & Introduction
  • Live Presentation • Crisis Support
  • Address by Veronica Macdonald (CEO)
  • Entrée Served
  • Pre-Dinner Show • GLAMA
  • Main Course Served
  • Live Band Entertainment
  • Dessert Served
  • Silent Auction Closed - Winners Announced
  • Live Auction
  • Raffle Prizes Drawn
  • Live Band & Dancing
  • Event Conclusion
Our Services

Read About Lifeline Macarthur & Western Sydney

Our Volunteers

Heartfelt Words From the Frontline

Volunteering is not just something I do, volunteering is not something I have to or should do, volunteering is part of who I am, it reflects the values I was raised with and continues to shape how I engage with and support my community. Being able to contribute in a meaningful way is both a privilege and a responsibility and it is something I’m deeply passionate about continuing.

Dianne L.

Crisis Support Volunteer

Volunteering at LMWS had provided with the opportunity to connect and support help seekers to stay safe and to know that they are not alone. When a help seeker says thank you for listening, I know that I have helped them to see a way forward, even if its just for that day. I feel welcomed and a part of the LMWS community every time I volunteer, the camaraderie is inspirational and the friendship strong with all the team the centre.

Kylie W.

Crisis Support Volunteer

The best part of Lifeline is the rewarding feeling of helping others alongside such a great team of volunteers and supervisors. It’s a challenge I love, knowing were making a real difference.

Paul W.

Crisis Support Volunteer

I have been volunteering with Lifeline for 24 years, what I enjoy about volunteering is hearing a help seeker say that talking with us has helped them feel empowered with a decision which has until now been an ongoing concern for them.

Sally R.

Crisis Support Volunteer

I enjoy volunteering because it not only helps me grow my skills in supporting others but it also reminds me the impact of human connection can have on someone. Being present and listening to someone in distress can really make a genuine difference, which gives me motivation to keep doing what I’m doing.

Chloe R.

Crisis Support Volunteer

I have been a volunteer crisis supporter for the past four years. I look forward to attending my weekly shift, seeing the regular volunteers on my shift, my In-Shift Supervisor, and Poonam.  For me, it’s really about giving back to the community in a meaningful way. I value being able to show up for people in difficult moments, listen without judgement, and offer calm support when things feel overwhelming. It continues to remind me of the importance of empathy, kindness, and simply being present for others when they need it most, even small conversations can make a difference.

Neeti A.

Crisis Support Volunteer

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