Under the lights of a sparkling night at Darling Harbour, Sydney, ophthalmologists, eye care professionals and RANZCO Eye Foundation supporters gathered to celebrate 10 years of the RANZCO Eye Foundation’s commitment to eye health research and awareness at Dockside in Cockle Bay Wharf last Friday, 15 June.

Over 240 guests enjoyed a great night of entertainment, delicious dining and exciting auctions raising much needed funds for ongoing eye research and sustainable eye care programs in communities in Australia and across the region.

The evening was elegantly hosted by the glamorous and highly accomplished TEN news presenter Sandra Sully who kindly donated her time (and voice) to act as the MC for the night. ARIA award-winning singer/songwriter Damien Leith serenaded guests with songs from his latest album, Now and Then, along with some classic favourites including a moving rendition of 'Hallelujah'  - a special encore request from the cheering guests.

During the evening, the RANZCO Eye Foundation's chairman Peter Keel announced a new Diamond Sponsor  - Bayer Australia.  This sponsorship equates to a very generous donation of $250,000 helping kick off the Eye Foundation’s next 10 years.

Highlight of the evening was the guest speaker, adventurer and environmental scientist Tim Jarvis AM, who inspired all those in attendance with his incredible tales of endurance, exploration and survival at the Poles.

Providing eye-opening accounts into his spine-tingling, seemingly death-defying polar expeditions including his upcoming endeavor to recreate the legendary open boat voyage of polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton in 2013, Tim Jarvis had guests on the edge of their seats whilst recounting his grueling experiences including severe weight loss, dismal living circumstances and crumb-like food rations.

All funds raised on the night support the many projects The RANZCO Eye Foundation currently has underway including projects in The Kimberley, Myanmar and East Timor as well as a new 10th Anniversary Project benefiting research into diabetic eye disease among indigenous Australians.

Up for grabs across both the live and silent auctions was an incredible array of prizes including Picasso and Matisse artworks, luxury travel packages to destinations including Shanghai and Hayman Island, a signed guitar from INXS legend and JulEYE Ambassador Kirk Pengilly to name a few.  Hottest bidding on the night was for lunch at Café Sydney for four with polar explorer Tim Jarvis….won by one of Sydney’s most handsome bankers!

The evening was a huge success and we'd like to thank everyone involved for their incredible support from Tim Jarvis AM, Sandra Sully, Damien Leith, companies including Travel Associates, St.George Bank, Macutec, Dobsons and The Design Burrow and the wonderful guests who attended the evening!