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NSW Premier and joint Patron of the Foundation, Hon. Barry O'Farrell MP, took time out from his busy schedule to attend the Ball, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of the talented researchers the Trish Foundation supports.  

"Every dollar raised by the Trish Foundation goes into MS research and I am truly inspired by the work they do," commented Mr O'Farrell.

Premier O'Farrell's sentiments were echoed by the Executive Director of MS Research Australia, Jeremy Wright, who told guests their support is ultimately an investment in hope.

Hosted by Mark Beretta from Channel 7’s Sunrise, those attending were given a rare treat with a special performance by iconic Australian band Mental as Anything and later danced the night away to the music of One Hit Wonders.

Six-times Tamworth Golden Guitar winner Allan Caswell opened the evening performing a special song he and his wife Marian wrote for Trish, ‘Brave Enough to Dream’.  Marian’s daughter Shannon played cricket with Trish.  Allan had earlier entertained the Foundation’s Corporate VIP guests during drinks and canapés in the Trish VIP Lounge. 

The Foundation’s honorary Auctioneer Craig Marshall, Century 21 Cordeau Marshall Gordon entertained guests with a unique ‘Around the World’ Live Auction, raising significant funds for research.

A highlight of the evening was Demetrios Livissianis’ grand entrance following his mammoth walk from Forster to Sydney.  Read more. 

Special guests in attendance included Ken and Wilma Rosewall, Hon John Alexander Federal Member for Bennelong and Gillian Lloyd, Dr Geoff Lee State Member for Parramatta, Professor Graeme Stewart and Dr Margaret Stewart, Dr Michael Barnett and his wife Yael.

Other stars of the evening were Acoustic Guitarist Simon Rudston-Brown and Magicians Bill Walsh and Steve Walker who gave their time to entertain guests.

The magical mystery theme of the Ball was showcased, with Simon Calton, Australian Opera Props transforming the venue, having spent weeks of his time preparing the many elements of the special theming.

‘Hope’ was the theme of the video produced pro bono by DMC Digital.  Emma Smith and Zynab Halaby, who are both living with MS, expressed the hope research gives. 

Dr Michael Barnett said, “Australia is seriously over-represented in terms of MS research.  I think these are exciting times in MS research.”

Trish Foundation Chairman Carol Langsford said the 'Magical Mystery' theme focused on unlocking the mystery to MS and to finding a cure.  

“We can’t raise funds without support and we are thrilled to have raised $140,000 for research.  We are very grateful to each of our guests, our generous major Corporate Sponsors and donors, our wonderful Ball Committee, Board members and volunteers and to each and every person who contributed to the success of our Ball and to the funds raised for research.  We are blessed to receive so much amazing support assisting us pursue a world where MS no longer exists.”  

Thank you to the Trish Foundation’s Sponsors and Supporters for their generosity and significant support of the Foundation and of multiple sclerosis research.  Please click here.

Sincere appreciation also to all our volunteers for giving their valuable time to contribute to the funds raised for multiple sclerosis research.