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A celebration of forty years
September 19, 2025
On Wednesday 10 September, our very special community came together at the National Gallery of Victoria to celebrate our historic 40-year milestone, and honour the people who made it possible.
For four decades, our generous supporters have helped us stand with children and young people with life-limiting conditions, and their families, through life, death and grief.
Hosted by 3AW’s Heidi Murphy, the 40th anniversary gala was a celebration of the past and a chance to look forward to the future. Our Board Chair Peter Polson welcomed guests, followed by a heartfelt tribute to our late patron, Sister Margaret Noone IBVM AM.
Her legacy of compassion and vision was beautifully honoured, reminding everyone in the room of the powerful beginnings that sparked a movement.
Throughout the night, guests were entertained by Mike Snell and his incredible dancers, along with harpist Liana Perillo, and harp and trumpet duo ‘Arlo’. Guests also had the chance to win a stunning $10,000 diamond and sapphire necklace, generously donated by Labtika, through a very special raffle.
Historic storytelling brought the past to life, with reflections from Life Governors Paula Fox AO, Connie Kimberley and Andy Penn AO, as well as our first doctor Dr. Elizabeth Carew-Reid OAM and our longest-serving volunteer of 33+ years, Steve Rosewarne APM.
Family voices then took centre stage, sharing powerful stories of Very Special Kids’ impact on the families we are privileged to care for.
A heartfelt thank you to very special dad Richard, Youth Advisory Group member and sibling Maryjo and mother-daughter duo Nicole and Breana for taking to the stage. 10-year-old Breana particularly captivated the room when she took control of the microphone to share her love of Very Special Kids.
Very special mum Zoe’s moving account of her daughter Sophia’s journey was another highlight of the night. She shared:
“For forty years, you have walked beside families like mine, making sure we are never left to face this journey alone.
And as we look ahead, your support is shaping the next forty years, not just for Sophia, but for every child who will come through those hospice doors.”
Chief Executive Officer, Michael Wasley, shared his appreciation for the support Very Special Kids has received over four remarkable decades, and highlighted that the need has never been greater.
Referrals of children and young people with life-limiting conditions have increased by 65% compared to this time last year. The number of children supported for end-of-life or after-death care has increased by 50% in just 12 months.
We are committed to meeting the growing demand for our services and ensuring that no family faces the unimaginable alone. Thank you to the many guests who pledged their support to help us be there for families when they need it most.
Thank you to everyone who pledged their support and made this night unforgettable. Your support ensures Sister Margaret’s legacy can continue to shine brightly now and for generations to come.
