Each year, the Celebrate the West event recognises the achievements of outstanding Australians who spent their childhood living in Sydney’s Western suburbs.
More than 350 attendees filled the room at WatervieW in Bicentennial Park – the venue sponsor of the event for the past 8 years.
An important component of the afternoon is raising money to assist the work of the San Miguel Family Centre which provides temporary accommodation and support for homeless families.
With unique live and silent auction items including dinner with actor and patron, Bryan Brown, over $100,000 was raised. Comedian Vice Sorrenti hosted the silent auction.
Six Champions of the West were recognised: Brother Patrick Howlett for his contribution to education; Peter Mattick for his ability to combine social consciousness with business acumen; John Fahey AC for his dedication to serving the community and Hazem El Masri for his contribution to sport and the local community.
Noeline Brown, who is celebrating her 52nd year in show business, was recognised for her outstanding dedication to social, political and community issues.
Everyone was inspired by the emotion charged story of John Maclean OAM. John, an elite athlete in his youth, became a partial paraplegic in 1988 after a collision with an 8 tonne truck. Remarkably, John walked onto the stage to share his story of recovery.
Also recognised for his work and support of the San Miguel Family Centre was Derrick Belan, current Branch Secretary of the National Union of Workers NSW Branch.
The Champions of the West luncheon has a remarkable atmosphere of fun, openness and informality.
