DATE
24 May 2019
MONEY RAISED
$28108
ATTENDEES
320
On Friday 24th May at the salubrious Glasshouse, the Grassroots Sports Club welcomed former UK cycling great David Millar to keynote the annual cycling lunch. Interviewed by the ‘Voice of Cycling’ Matthew Keenan, David provided a compelling insight to the evolution of a professional cyclist and the degeneration of professional cycling.
Grassroots patrons nestled into an afternoon of fine food and excellent Torbrek wines with the dulcet tunes of Russell Robertson harmonising in the background. The scene was set for a brilliant afternoon.
Visiting Australia exclusively for the GSC, David held an audience of more than 320 people spellbound as he recounted the highs and lows of a spectacular career. Matthew Keenan asked all the right questions whilst allowing David to recite in unconstrained honesty. David covered everything from his childhood first foray into cycling, his love of the Tour De France and of course his achievements both prior to and following his doping ban. His articulation of the gradual draft into the world of doping was riveting.
Apart from the serious side of the day there was a bit of fun and warmth. Arj Barker humored us with an international’s view of Melbourne and Melbournians. Jane Rowe the founder of the Mirabel Foundation was interviewed by Grassroots' favourite son, Dan Clohesy and we heard about the origins of Mirabel and the extraordinary positive impact it has had on thousands of children’s' lives. Stuart Verrier, auctioneer extraordinaire ran a lively and entertaining auction that saw lively bidding for some fabulous prizes.
We rapt to announce that the event raised $28,000, which will be well used by Mirabel to help deliver the belief that ‘every child deserves a childhood’. This outstanding result would not be possible without the support of our generous sponsors:
Bennelong Funds Management
Wilson Asset Management
Swiss Wellness
Factor Bikes
Avalon Waterways
Brompton Bicycles
Torbrek Wines
Bont Cycling Shoes
For those who missed (or want to watch again), here's a link to the full David Millar interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4kc8LnyJz8
