Wanted: 1000 people to dine on the Rose Bay promenade to raise $1 million for flood victims

Sydney restaurateur Michael McMahon is hosting a major fundraiser along the Rose Bay promenade on the evening of Thursday 17 February to raise more than $1 million for Australian flood victims.

McMahon, with the support of Woollahra Council, will give 1000 people an opportunity to dine on the Rose Bay promenade for the first time to help flood affected families get back on their feet.

McMahon, owner of Catalina Rose Bay, has enlisted the help of his friends and top chefs Neil Perry, Rockpool, Matt Moran, Aria, Guillaume Brahimi, Bennelong, and Rob Marcetti, Icebergs to cater for one of Sydney’s biggest outdoor dinner parties.

Acting Mayor Peter Cavanagh welcomed the move: “The world needs more people like Michael McMahon who are not scared of stepping up and taking on the challenge of raising funds for a good cause,” he said.

“In less then a week, Michael has created a magnificent local event that will change the lives of thousands of flood affected families. The Woollahra Council has thrown its support behind this fundraiser to ensure families in Queensland, NSW and Victoria can start rebuilding their lives.

“The Council is working closely with State Government authorities to manage road closures and other logistics to ensure the smooth running of the event.”

This is the third time McMahon has raised money for a local disaster and emergency – he donated a total of $500,000 to the Tsunami Appeal and Victorian Bushfire Appeal.

The Acting Mayor said he was confident Michael would raise more than a $1 million this time round: “The enthusiasm this event is generating at a local level has been overwhelming. Everywhere I go, people are talking about the fundraiser,” says Cavanagh.

“Michael sold 33 tables in less then three days simply through word-of-mouth. He has also received massive donations from major corporations and local businesses to cover food, wine, raffle items and other set-up costs. It is amazing how a tragedy like the flood disaster can bring out the best in people.”

The Council is urging Sydneysiders to support the Rose Bay Relief Appeal for Australian

Flood Victims on what promises to be a magical night out on Sydney’s beautiful harbour.

The event costs $1,000 a head, with every cent going directly to flood affected families via the Salvation Army. Tickets are available through Catalinas on (02) 9371 0555 or email: reservations@catalinarosebay.com.au