Last night the Sapphire Committee came together with their incredible community to make a real difference for Queensland’s sickest kids, raising a record-breaking $600,000 at their annual Gala in support of the Children’s Hospital Foundation.
Held at the Howard Smith Wharves, the event brought together over 250 of Queensland’s most generous supporters, all united by a shared mission – to ensure every child has every chance to thrive.
A night to remember
Since their start in 2022, the Sapphire Committee has been a beacon of hope for sick kids and their families. This group has created a space for next-generation young philanthropists to make a meaningful impact. In their first year alone, the committee raised over $700,000.
Named after the official gemstone of Queensland, the Sapphire Committee truly shone at this year’s Gala –continuing their incredible momentum and providing vital support to the Foundation’s world-class services and programs.
This year’s Gala also saw the exciting announcement of a new group of ambassadors for 2024 and 2025, including some of Queensland’s most well-known faces:
- Kendall Gilding
- Joel Parkinson
- Billy and Rachel Walters
- Arianne Titmus
- Corey and Tegan Oates
- Charli Robinson
These ambassadors will play a key role in spreading the word about the life changing work we support, inspiring others to support sick kids.
Supporting sick kids, together
The funds raised by the Sapphire Committee have already made a big impact. Last year’s Gala provided the initial $400,000 investment needed to launch the Queensland Children’s Hospital ACTION Centre –helping bring life saving therapies for children with rare and complex diseases.
Their support has also powered world-first research at the Ian Frazer Centre for Children’s Immunotherapy Research – advancing our understanding and treatment of childhood cancers.
“We couldn’t be prouder of Queensland’s generous community for supporting our vision and raising vital funds for the Children’s Hospital Foundation,” said Elizabeth Benson, Chair of the Sapphire Committee.
“The energy in the room was electric, and we’re so excited to welcome our new ambassadors. They are an extraordinary group, and together,
we’ll continue to make a difference for kids in need.”
A growing community of generosity
The Sapphire Committee is about more than raising money. The Committee are building a community of hope and generosity. In a short time, they have created real and meaningful impact for sick children in Queensland.
Their achievements are a testament to the power of generosity. Every dollar raised helps turn innovative ideas into real-world solutions. It ensures that every child has access to the life saving care, no matter how complex their condition.
With the record-breaking success of this year’s Gala, the Sapphire Committee and its ambassadors are ready to keep making a difference, one event – and one child – at a time.
Together, we are building a future where every child has the chance to thrive.
Celebrating 10 years of care
As we approach the 10th birthday of the Queensland Children’s Hospital, we celebrate Havana’s journey and many others like hers.
Havana’s journey highlights the impact of the Children’s Hospital Foundation and Queensland Children’s Hospital.
From life saving surgeries to whole-patient care like music therapy to bedside play, these programs have provided a better quality of life for both Havana and children just like her.