On an elegant evening, the 26th of August, 2023 marked a significant event that resonated with the ideals of unity, heritage, and political support. The Liberal Friends of Lebanon (LFoL) Inaugural Gala Dinner in support of The Hon. Michael Sukkar MP took place at the prestigious William Inglis Hotel in Warwick Farm. The evening was a showcase of community spirit, political engagement, and a celebration of the unique blend of Lebanese and Australian cultures.
As the sun began to set, guests started to arrive, and the air was filled with anticipation and excitement. The event was organized with precision, a fact evidenced by the seamless registration process as guests arrived at around 6:30 PM. Attendees were greeted by the warm smiles of volunteers and fellow supporters, setting the tone for a night of camaraderie.
Official proceedings commenced with a captivating “Rise above Lebanon” video, immersing the audience in the rich history and spirit of the Lebanese people. Carla Kassab, Treasurer of LFoL, took the stage as the Master of Ceremonies, guiding the evening’s events with grace and enthusiasm. In her opening address, Carla Kassab expressed gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate Lebanese heritage within the Liberal Party and emphasized the importance of inclusivity and unity.
The program continued to unfold, blending moments of solemn reflection with excitement. Attendees stood together for both the Australian and Lebanese national anthems, symbolizing the dual identities they cherish. A moment of silence was observed to honor the memory of Lebanese martyrs and victims of the tragic Beirut Port Blast.
The evening also featured fundraising opportunities that not only added a sense of spirited competition but also contributed to the support of the LFoL cause. The Liberal Friends of Lebanon pin raffle boasted enticing prizes, including tickets to the NRL Grand Final, an elliptical trainer, and exquisite jewelry.
The event’s heartbeat, however, was the recognition of key figures who have dedicated themselves to the LFoL mission. Wendy Finianos, Chair of LFoL, officially opened the evening, welcoming guests and setting the stage for the Hon. Peter Dutton MP’s video message. The appreciation extended to state patrons, The Hon. Mark Coure, MP, and Mrs. Tina Ayyad, MP, who were presented with plaques and pins for their invaluable contributions.
As the night unfolded, the rich tapestry of Lebanese-Australian culture was woven through performances by the talented Chanel Chamoun. Her musical renditions added a touch of cultural vibrancy that resonated with the attendees, underscoring the unity that the LFoL event aimed to promote.
The apex of the evening arrived with the live auction, an exhilarating affair that saw enthusiastic bidding for items close to the hearts of sports enthusiasts and gourmands alike. The event also provided an opportunity to acknowledge individuals who have left an indelible mark on the LFoL community. Khalil Tartak and Dr. Imad Berro were honored for their dedication, with heartfelt speeches underscoring their lasting impact on the organization.
Of course, the presence of The Hon. Michael Sukkar MP, the Federal Patron of LFoL, was the evening’s crowning moment. In his address, he expressed gratitude for the support shown and emphasized the importance of community engagement in shaping the political landscape. The evening culminated with a heartfelt thank-you and a group photo capturing the unity and determination of those in attendance.
At around 11 PM, the inaugural gala dinner drew to a close. The night had been a resounding success, achieving its mission of celebrating heritage, fostering unity, and rallying support for The Hon. Michael Sukkar MP. Attendees left with hearts full of pride for their heritage and inspired by the spirit of collaboration and engagement that the Liberal Friends of Lebanon event had embodied.
