The Children’s Cancer Foundation Million Dollar Lunch soared to incredible new heights earlier this month, raising a record $2.5m in 2018. A stellar line-up of over 600 celebrities, socialites and high-profile business leaders descended on Crown Melbourne for the glamorous luncheon and to make a difference for Australian children faced with cancer.
Encore Event Technologies were responsible for the audio-visual, lighting and custom multimedia for this milestone event, as well as conceptualising and pitching to event organisers the visionary theme, galaxies, to create an astonishing experience from out of this world.
Upon arrival at the world-class venue, guests were prepared for launch within the pre-function cocktail space, emulating the interior of an actual rocket ship, replete with boarding sounds and lighting simulations.
The immersive theatrics continued after cocktails as the shuttle doors of the “rocket ship” cocktail space opened to reveal two tunnels, leading to the Palladium Ballroom. Thanks to the cunning use of fog jets and creative lighting, the experience was one of mystery, excitement and discovery. The VIP guests emerged from the mist to orbit a glamorous new world as the ultimate reveal of the beautifully-lit ballroom was unveiled.
Under a draped ceiling covered in twinkling, starry lights, returning MCs Edwina Bartholomew and Hamish McLachlan enchanted the audience and introduced a touching story from beneficiaries of the Children’s Cancer Foundation. With heartfelt sincerity and firsthand experience, the parents shared insight into the emotional turmoil each family with a sick child feels; echoing some of the audience’s own personal experiences.
Behind the hosts stood 14 hexagonal screens and a “3D-effect” diamond outlined in LED lights to reflect the windows of a spaceship. The backdrop radiated with the out-of-this-world performance by the LED dancing troupe, which relaunched the room’s energy, providing balance and flow for the day’s event.
After a delectable three-course lunch, specially-designed by renowned Crown chefs to complement the theme, was the main event: The Grand Auction and Volvo Premium Raffle. The electrifying auction went off with a bang, and auctioneer, Peter Heagney, could barely keep up with the fast-paced bidding from all corners of the Palladium Ballroom.
Ten once-in-a-lifetime experiences were auctioned, from luxury holiday escapes to world-class curated dining events. Along with the raffle items, the Million Dollar Lunch exceeded its name, ultimately raising a record-breaking $2,503,350.
To keep up the tempo, Australian singer-songwriter and popstar, Samantha Jade, brought the house down with a stellar performance to cap off the extraordinary occasion.
Mark Holmes, Executive General Manager – Food & Beverage, Crown Melbourne, spoke about the event’s success,
“Encore Event Technologies were once again able to deliver and ensure the event was a success! As a valued partner they contribute in terms of every aspect of the event from the initial concept, to design, to flow and of course the content – once again a memorable event was delivered – thank you. The entire luncheon was seamless and remained true to our objectives, while contributing to a very worthy cause.”
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