MATES SA Charity Lunch a success!
MATES in Construction SA held their third Annual Charity Lunch at the iconic Adelaide Oval in November last year. Not only was this their number one fundraiser for the year, it was also a celebration of the great work the team has been doing throughout the year. Nearly 300 people joined together to show their support and help raise vital funds to help reduce suicide in the South Australian construction industry.
The official side of the event commenced with emcee Mark Aiston introducing Karl ‘Winda’ Telfer, a Kaurna man from the Adelaide Plains region of South Australia, to deliver the Welcome to Country. The Honourable Dean Brown, Honorary Patron of MATES In Construction SA then delivered the opening address to the crowd to get the day underway.
SA’s Operations Manager Bob Clifford, provided an overview of the latest ABS figures, and an update on the team’s latest training figures.
Once again, Cbus joined us as the Major Event sponsor, something they have generously done since SA commenced charity events. Erin Sales, Head of Industry Partnerships at CBUS spoke a few words on the industry and why they are proud supporters of MATES In Construction.
Once again, Cbus joined us as the Major Event sponsor, something they have generously done since SA commenced charity events. Erin Sales, Head of Industry Partnerships at CBUS spoke a few words on the industry and why they are proud supporters of MATES In Construction.
‘Cbus is really proud to partner with Mates in Construction because of the valuable service they provide to people in our industry’, said Erin. ‘Events like the MATES SA lunch give a platform to keep discussing and changing the culture around mental health which is really important.’
Karyn Dale, SA’s Marketing and Business Development Manager, then took some time to thank all the event sponsors and discuss ways people can support MATES. Special mention was given to Gold event sponsors Scentre Group and Quanta Services.
Mark Aiston provided the crowd with a wonderful and uplifting speech, talking candidly about his own battle with mental illness, gambling, divorce and the death of his father. Mark delivered his story with his own personal style of humour and left a message that was insightful and thought provoking.
Entertainment included Matuezi Acoustic Duo, who performed their tasteful harmonies of ballads, pop and soft rock covers, and a live fundraising auction performed by a professional auctioneer.
Michael Harper, Chair of the MATES In Construction SA Board, officially closed the afternoon and allowed the crowd time to network and continue their celebrations.
Overall it was a fantastic afternoon that helped raise considerable funds for the team in SA to continue the great work they do. Thank you to everyone who attended the event, as well as all event sponsors and those who donated goods for the auction and raffle. We are now looking forward to doing it all again this year!