SHINE celebrates 30 years with a Gala Dinner at NSW Parliament House

SHINE for Kids celebrated its 30th Anniversary with a sensational Gala Dinner at the New South Wales Parliament House

Co-hosts were The Hon. Helen Westwood MLC and The Hon. Catherine Cusack MLC. Wirdjuri Elder Aunty Kath Withers commenced the evening with an Acknowledgement of Country, recognising that Aboriginal people are the traditional owners of the land on which the event was held. The dinner was officially opened by The Hon. Greg Smith SC MP, NSW Attorney General & Minister for Justice. Christian Marchegiani, trainer for the Sydney Swans and Channel Nine's 'Excess Baggage', did a remarkable job as Master of Ceremonies. Even Daniel MacPherson, compere of 'Dancing with the Stars', dropped in to say a surprise hello!

At tables set with fine parliamentary china and origami tulips made by an inmate from the Junee Correctional Centre, guests enjoyed their entrees while SHINE for Kids Chairman Helen Wiseman gave a touching welcoming speech, followed by a wonderful song by two SHINE for Kids children aged nine and twelve. Keynote speaker was Kirsty de Vallance from A Cast of Thousands, who described her teenage years dealing with her father's incarceration and its terrible ramifications for her whole family. Mr Gerry Schipp, Corrective Services NSW acknowledged all the work that SHINE for Kids have done over the past 30 years, and led the singing of 'Happy Birthday' to SHINE.

The Inaugural Young Person's Award was presented by our Patron Ann Symonds and The Hon. Greg Smith, Attorney General to Jamielee Chater to celebrate the achievements of this young woman who has given back to SHINE for Kids by sharing her own experiences, reaching out to other young people in a similar situation. Jamielee has joined the SHINE mentoring team and will continue as an example of what young people can achieve.

Everyone had a great time throughout the evening's activities, including a paper plane competition, balloon lucky dip, croquembouche raffle, a blind wine taster trivia, raffle draw, silent auction and a live auction. All guests walked away with showbags full of wonderful items and prizes, thanks to our generous sponsors.

The evening reflected the highlights and achievements of all the lives of children SHINE for Kids has touched so positively throughout the last three decades. Thanks for all the positive feedback we've received.

Most importantly: the evening raised almost $30,000 thanks to the participation, generosity and contribution of our supporters, assisting SHINE for Kids to creating hope and inspiration for many disadvantaged children facing parental incarceration. The funds raised will be used to sustain SHINE for Kids programs and services.