OVER $100,000 RAISED AT THE INAUGURAL STAR BALL IN SUPPORT OF THE STARLIGHT CHILDREN’S FOUNDATION
THE inaugural 2008 Star Ball Gold Coast gala dinner raised over $100,000 on Saturday 22nd March for the Starlight Children’s Foundation. The Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation that relies entirely on the support and generosity of the community. Their aim is to bring happiness to all seriously ill and hospitalised children, and their families, giving them the opportunity to access and benefit from Starlight’s programs.
The Star Ball is an official Magic Millions event that attracted celebrities from all sporting codes and the racing industry. This will be an ongoing annual event and will form a permanent part of the Magic Millions social calendar.
Almost 400 people attended the Vegas themed black-tie event at the Sheraton Mirage Resort & Spa where they were treated to a star studded line up of entertainment.
A large neon sign typical of Vegas and a picture landmark served as backdrops for the dazzling evening that included live and silent auctions, music, dinner and dancing.
Rob McCasker from Hot Tomato 102.9FM was the Master of Ceremonies with entertainment including Dean Vegas, cover band The Accidents and a headline act of Jon Stevens, front man of the 80’s band Noiseworks and INXS.
Coolmore Australia provided enormous support for the Event through their incredible donation of the first Australian stallion nomination for Danehill Son and Champion Racehorse Dylan Thomas to the Starlight Foundation. The nomination was auctioned off for $60,000 under heavy bidding.
Starlight Chairman Mark Sowerby said the generosity and support of Coolmore made a huge difference to the outcome of the Ball.
“Coolmore’s support of this event was absolutely magnificent and we were thrilled with the donation and the incredible interest in the nomination from broodmare owners. We cannot thank the Magnier family and Coolmore team enough”.
Dylan Thomas’ arrival into Coolmore Australia for the upcoming breeding season has been met with great anticipation by local breeders. A 6-time Group One winner and the best horse Kieren Fallon ever rode, Dylan Thomas is bred on a similar Danehill/Sharpen Up cross as exceptional sire Danehill Dancer. Probably the best horse ever by sire of sires Danehill and a half-brother to the brilliant European Champion 2yo filly Queen's Logic, Dylan Thomas is certain to be a huge hit in Australia. Group One winner and the best horse Kieren Fallon ever rode, Dylan Thomas is bred on a similar cross as exceptional sire . Probably the best horse ever by sire of sires and a half-brother to the brilliant European Champion 2yo filly , Dylan Thomas is certain to be a huge hit in Australia.
The Magic Millions Star Ball will be held again in 2009 on the 8th January, the Thursday night prior to the Conrad Jupiters Magic Millions Raceday.
Event/ Media Contact:
Mr. Mark Sowerby
CHAIRMAN
The Star Ball, Gold Coast |
