Thursday the 12th of March was a day of great celebration at Windana. The annual Mocktail Party held that evening took a birthday theme, to honour the 100th birthday of our much loved Patron, Dame Elisabeth Murdoch, and Windana’s 25th birthday. A giant marquee, decorated with a theme of hearts, roses and balloons, created a festive, party atmosphere in the gardens of Windana, at St Kilda. Harpist and singer, Mary Doumany helped create an elegant and relaxed ambiance, as arriving guests were greeted by the Board and CEO.
Following the arrival of our Patron, Dame Elisabeth Murdoch, and a series of introductions to her, the evening commenced. Windana’s Chairman Peter Hay and CEO, Carol Nikakis welcomed the guests. Elizabeth Stoney of Middle Park Gallery and our Windana Ambassador for Art, invited everyone to participate in the creation of a painting during the evening. Dame Elisabeth placed the first brushstroke. A resident of Windana’s Therapeutic Community also spoke about his own journey and relationship with Windana. His words touched the hearts of everyone present.
And then it was on with the Awards! Gloria Micarelli, Ilse Jamonts and Melbourne Grammar’s Bruce House were presented with Certificates of Appreciation for their significant contribution to Windana. The Board was pleased to award Life Membership to Jan and Michael Pontifex, for their many years of ongoing dedication and service to Windana.
New Ambassador, Barbara Rozenes, was introduced by the Chairman. Barbara has actively supported Windana by making a Windana Wish come true for the Therapeutic Community, as well as introducing Windana to sculptor, Robert Owen.
The Peter Bucci Award was a highlight of the presentations during the evening. This very special award is made by the Board to an outstanding staff member, in memory of our founder, Peter Bucci. To the delight of staff and his family, Keith Edwards, Director of Client Services received this honour.
Then, the birthday celebrations commenced. Windana has created a new rose garden to celebrate Dame Elisabeth’s 100th birthday and this will be a permanent reminder of her patronage over the past 18 years. A beautiful and thought provoking Sorry Stone – a granite sculptural piece, was generously donated by sculptor, Robert Owen. And finally, a rousing chorus of “Happy Birthday” to Dame Elisabeth heralded the arrival of a huge birthday cake.
The Mocktail Party provides an opportunity for all Windana supporters to come together to celebrate our achievements, as well as catch up with old friends and there were many smiling faces on the night. Windana is committed to providing the best possible treatment and follow up services, so that our clients can achieve and maintain their recovery. Without the support of our Board, staff, networks and supporters, this would not be possible.
Very special thanks must go to:
Frazer Woodhead, Will Thompson, Ed Allan, Josh Dunell, and Michael How of Bruce House, Melbourne Grammar, our volunteer mocktail waiters for the evening. Thank you also to Glenn Matthews for coordinating this much appreciated support;
James Vincent and Phillip Aitkin who worked tirelessly out the back, creating the beautiful mocktails for our guests;
Lillian Hendrikson who provided the superb catering;
Mary Doumany for her beautiful music;
Robert Owen, for the generous donation of a sculpture to Dame Elisabeth Murdoch in celebration of her 100th birthday.
Darren Ray, Windana Ambassador for his presentation and assistance on the night;
Elizabeth Stoney, Windana Ambassador, who also quietly launched the Stoney Women: Windana Painting Lease initiative. Windana will receive 50% of the value of the lease as a donation.
Paul Pattison, for taking the lease on the first paintings released for the above initiative.
Jane Macaulay, Fiona Jordan, Joan Benallack, Jill Byrne and Louisa Turner for their tireless efforts.
Windana Board, Marketing Committee and Ambassadors, Mary Wooldridge, MP, and Mayors and Councillors from local Government.
A huge thank you to all our guests on the evening who helped to make our Mocktail Party a truly memorable celebration.