Cerebral Palsy Alliance (CPA) has launched a new marquee fundraising event in Melbourne, with the support of many in Australia’s advertising, marketing and media industry.
The global centre of expertise for cerebral palsy research, advocacy, services and technology innovation will host “The Retreat” in Melbourne for the first time in November 2023.
The fundraising event will be held with the support of over a dozen Australian and international media powerhouses.
Toyota has signed on as major sponsor, supported by partners News Corp, Nine, Paramount, Seven, Foxtel, oOh!media, QMS, ARN, Southern Cross Austereo, NOVA Entertainment and a growing number of agency partners including Publicis Media, IPG Mediabrands, Dentsu and Cummins & Partners.
The Retreat builds on three decades of support from the media industry for CPA’s annual CBD event, which raises more than $1.5 million annually for people with cerebral palsy – the most common physical disability in childhood, affecting more than 34,000 Australians.
The Retreat steering committee is co-chaired by Ian Mayer (CEO, Chatswood & Ryde Toyota) and Sue Squillace (CEO, Mediahub ANZ). Other members include Andrew Will (commercial director, Nova), Fi Prosser, Lewis Bearman (COO, Blue Orbit Asset Management), Nick Keenan (CEO, Starcom), Peter Zavecz (MD, News Corp), Rob Gilbert (founder, Gilbert Media), Rod Prosser (CSO, Network 10), Sam Westaway (national commercial director, ACM), Sara Lappage (COO, QMS Media), Simon Lawson (MD, PHD), Tim Murphy and Vin Naidoo (CMO, Toyota Australia).
Mayer said the committee was dedicated to ensuring the inaugural event treated guests to an unforgettable weekend of golf, wine and entertainment all whilst raising funds for an incredibly worthy cause: “We are so proud to engage with the Melbourne based committee to bring this event to Victoria.
“The funds raised make a significant difference to those living with CP and my thanks go out to the media industry, Toyota and all those who are making this event possible. We really can make a difference!”
Squillace commented: “There is no better feeling than having the opportunity to use the power of this industry to help others.
“Bringing the magic of this event to Melbourne is something we have been working on for a while and we cannot wait for it- having the industry rally together like this is a testament to what can be achieved.”
Rob White, CEO of Cerebral Palsy Alliance, expressed: “With the support of our generous donors and partners, Cerebral Palsy Alliance has grown to become a world leader in cerebral palsy research, advocacy, assistive technology and so much more.
“Thank you to our friends in the media industry – your support underpins the vital services we provide to so many people with disabilities and their families.”