On Wednesday 14 May, supporters, friends, and family of Variety – the Children’s Charity came together for a truly special edition of the Variety Long Lunch. Held in celebration of the extraordinary Penny Docherty, the event was not only a tribute to her remarkable life and unwavering dedication to Variety, but also a vibrant reunion of the community she helped build.
Guests embraced the “bold and bright” dress code with joyful enthusiasm, flooding the venue with colour, energy, and joy – a fitting tribute to a woman who embodied all three in everything she did.
The afternoon was brilliantly hosted by the much-loved Margaret Pomeranz AM and Penny Mapp, whose warmth and charm as MCs kept spirits high and the energy flowing. A standout moment was the electric live auction and wish list, masterfully led by seasoned auctioneer Nick Johnson.
One of the most touching highlights came when a cherished piece of Variety Bash memorabilia, generously donated by David Docherty, was auctioned. A spontaneous rendition of “That’s Amore” brought everyone to their feet, arm in arm, singing in unison. It was a beautiful scene of joy and remembrance, showcasing the deep connections within the Variety community.
This unforgettable day would not have been possible without the dedication of the Variety Long Lunch Committee. Our heartfelt thanks go to David Docherty, Meg Williamson, Beth Jackson, Peter Hebbes, and Jack Cannons for their passion, time, and unwavering support in bringing it all to life.
It was an honour to gather with friends, both old and new, and we’re thrilled to share that together, we raised over $102,000 to support kids in need.
Thank you for making it so special. We can’t wait to see you again next year!
