That's a wrap up for this year’s Mayoral Charity Gala with over $50,000 raised to go towards dementia focused initiatives, including Memory Lane Cafés for local residents living with dementia, and their carers. 

Partnering with MannaCare, Council hosted 250 guests who enjoyed food, dancing and entertainment at the annual fundraising dinner on Friday evening 8 September at the Manningham Function Centre.   

Manningham Mayor, Cr Deirdre Diamante, shared her gratitude for those who supported this event.

“I feel very humbled and grateful for everyone that took part, it means the world to me to have received such support for this cause,” Cr Diamante said.

“All proceeds will go directly towards initiatives for dementia awareness, including the creation of an inaugural Memory Lane Café at MannaCare’s facility in Doncaster.”

A Dementia Australia model - a Memory Lane Café is a place for people living with dementia and carers to interact and connect within the community, in a welcoming and comfortable environment.

“Dementia Australia has seen many benefits from these cafés, including reducing the risk of isolation that often comes with a dementia diagnosis,” Cr Diamante said.

“My hope is for Manningham residents and carers to remain connected during a time that often leaves you feeling alone.  Following the launch and establishment of the café at MannaCare we will work with MannaCare to explore opportunities for additional cafes in other parts of the municipality.”

“We’ve had such a wonderful response from the Gala, and I’m so incredibly proud of Manningham’s community spirit. So many people have asked us if they can still donate to support this initiative," Cr Diamante added.  

For a short time MannaCare will continue to take direct donations for people who were unable to attend.

MannaCare Chair, John Bennie PSM was thankful to partner with Council and fundraise for this year’s Mayoral Charity Gala.

“The event was most successful – it raised a significant amount of money for a cause of great importance in the Manningham community,” John said.

“Council is known to support so many (people), addressing so many conditions (like dementia) – and should be recognised and commended for that effort,” he added.