Businesses dig deep to raise vital funds for vulnerable children

Kids from the Mentoring Through Sport program through SunnyKids.

Travis Schultz Winemakers Master Class returns for its 12th year, determined to raise thousands for Sunshine Coast charity, SunnyKids.

Friday 17 May will see the return of the annual Travis Schultz Winemakers Master Class backed by NAB Private Wealth for SunnyKids event.

This year’s theme, A Day at the Winery, will see the Maroochy RSL transformed into a beautiful scene, setting the stage for a day of indulgence, fun and generosity.

More than 370 local businesspeople will be treated to a four-course meal, accompanied with some of Australia’s finest wines.

SunnyKids chief executive officer Kathleen Hope is overwhelmed by the generosity and ongoing support of the community, with close to $200,000 raised at last year’s event and nearly $1 million since its inception.

“Each day we see firsthand the devastating impacts of domestic and family violence on women and children,“ she said.

“We simply can’t afford to turn a blind eye to the crisis that is on our doorstep. This year, with the support of our incredible community, we’re determined to raise over $200,000.

“This kind of financial support will mean we can continue to deliver our vital support services to our most vulnerable children.

“Each year this event raises vital funds for our most vulnerable children, right here on the Coast. It’s the generosity of our wonderful supporters that enables us to continue to provide critical support to children who desperately need our help.

“The generosity and caliber of the guests in the room contributes to an outstanding afternoon of fun, laughter, expertise and purpose.”

NAB Private Wealth are proud sponsors of this year’s event for the seventh consecutive year and NAB Private Wealth client director and SunnyKids director John Burnie believes supporting SunnyKids is vital for the community.

“SunnyKids continues to provide essential support services to our most vulnerable children here on the Sunshine Coast. It’s extremely important to support those facing adversity, they can’t do it on their own, it really does take a village,” John said.

“SunnyKids relies heavily on community support, with government funding being limited and not extending to support the work they do with vulnerable children.”

“Strong communities are built by individuals who care. When we extend our support to those facing hardship, we’re showing people we genuinely care about their well-being and want to support them.”

Travis Schultz, of Travis Schultz & Partners and event founder, continues to be overwhelmed by the level of support that the Winemakers Master Class attracts within the community each year.

“We are immensely grateful for the generosity and commitment of those in our local community to our cause. It’s truly inspiring connecting with local businesspeople at such a fun event all while raising money for SunnyKids,” Travis said.

“I feel that all of us who are in professional services and business on the Sunshine Coast need to do all we can to give back to support the community that supports us. It’s a moral responsibility, if we don’t do it, then who will?”

This year’s event will showcase some of Australia’s top winemakers as guests are treated to a four-course meal paired perfectly with a variety of wines.

“We are honored this year to be joined by esteemed winemakers from renowned wine-producing regions. From the picturesque Adelaide Hills, we welcome The Lane; from the historic Hunter Valley, Meerea Park; and representing the rich heritage of the Barossa Valley, Hentley Farm and Yalumba. Their presence enriches our event and adds an extra layer of sophistication to our tasting journey,” Travis said.

Travis Schultz Winemakers Master Class backed by NAB Private Wealth for SunnyKids will take place on Friday 17 May at Maroochy RSL Events Centre.