Fairwater Supporters Reception
On Wednesday 9 March 2016, Lady Mary Fairfax AC OBE generously opened her home, once again, to the Australian Ireland Fund. The beautiful autumn evening reception was hosted to say thank you to our incredible supporters and provide an update on the Fund and Ireland.
Chairman John O’Neill AO welcomed Board Members including Treasurer Yvonne Le Bas, Jane Cosgrove, Tom Moore and Frank Curran and his Co Host Ambassador Noel White. John made note of special guests, Lady Mary Fairfax AC OBE, Past Chairman Mr. Charles Curran AC, Senator Deborah O’Neill, Jim Momsen and Governors Ruth Tarlo, Patrick Tuttle and Nicole Patterson as well as Rodney & Judith O’Neil. John also welcomed Tim Harrowell of Emirates who are in their second year as a major sponsor of the Fund. John acknowledged the Worldwide Funds 40th anniversary and encouraged those in attendance to consider joining the Australian contingent at the June Conference in Dublin. John also announced the Australian Ireland Funds 30th birthday in 2017 and spoke of the three flagship projects who are receiving support this year, Suas, Solas and Soar. John also spoke about our vision to the largest network of Friends of Ireland in Australia and to be the charity of choice for Irish and other organisations in Australia.
Ambassador Noel White then spoke thanking guests for their continuing friendship and support of the work of the Fund both in Ireland and here in Australia.
Louise Kelly spoke on behalf of the Young Leaders providing an update on their progress in 2015 and their goals for 2016 including appealing to attendees for their help in spreading the word of the work of the Young Leaders and for any contacts and opportunities to work together on future events.
John concluded the formalities for the evening with a presentation to Lee Thomas of bouquet of flowers which she accepted on behalf of Lady Fairfax AC OBE. It was a beautiful evening that allowed the Fund to thank everyone who continues to support our work and we look forward to continuing that relationship into the future.
