On May 10th, The Prince Consort Hotel buzzed with excitement as it hosted the Life with Horses 2nd Annual Fundraiser Luncheon. Bringing together 80 wonderful guests, all united by their passion for supporting retired racehorses. Retired AFL legend, Barry Hall was our amazing guest speaker, the luncheon was a great example of the power of community and compassion.
After some delicious margarita’s on arrival, lively introductions, our guests had the chance to mingle while being treated to delicious food in a beautiful setting, all arranged by our team of supporters at the Prince Consort Hotel. The hotel was the perfect venue for this special occasion.
Personal Stories
One of the highlights of the luncheon (certainly for Kat) was when Kat’s partner’s daughter Lizzie took the stage to share her story. Lizzie spoke passionately about her favourite horse, Ducky. She described the pure joy she finds in spending time with him and performing tricks like making him smile. Lizzie’s words were a perfect reminder of the relationships formed between humans and horses at Life with Horses.
Following Lizzie’s lovely speech, Kat shared her own personal journey. Leaving the corporate world to build Life with Horses was a monumental decision, driven by her passion for helping both horses and humans heal. Kat spoke about the challenges and triumphs of this journey, and most of all the progress we’ve made in rehabilitating, re-homing, and re-educating retired racehorses (and the plans for the future of LWH).
Barry then took the stage as our guest speaker. He spoke about his own experience with his football career and how the pressures were a lot for him, retirement, feeling lost and no purpose when waking up in the morning after retirement. He and our MC, Trevor Tippett was able to highlight the importance of supporting charities like ours not only because it helps these great horses in retirement but also humans who need an outlet. Barry’s speech was so genuine and motivating, that I’m sure it left as great an impression on all of the guests as it did on me.
Activities and giveaways
The luncheon also featured live and silent auctions, raffle prizes, and giveaways. The afternoon was so much fun as guests tried to outbid each other on a whole range of unique items and experiences kindly donated by supporters.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our guests, we were able to raise an astounding $30,000. This significant amount will directly support the ongoing care and rehabilitation of our horses, covering essential costs such as food, housing, veterinary care, and re-training services. The funds raised will ensure that our horses receive the best possible care and continue to thrive in their new lives.
Looking to the future
The success of our 2nd Annual Fundraiser Luncheon has filled the LWH team with renewed hope and reinforced our belief in the importance of our work. We are so excited to continue our mission with the support and encouragement of our community.
I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of this event. Your support means the world to us and to the horses we care for. Together, we are making a difference, one horse at a time. Thank you.
Special thanks to –
- Hellenika
- Stratton Bar and Kitchen
- Ariat
- Brisbane Lions
- Eva Street Privateer
- Pernod Ricard
- Brown Forman
- Sheraton Grand
- Moxy Sydney
- Tattersall’s Club
- Robert Oatley
- Brisbane Racing Club
- Tilley & Wills