Santa Claus is coming today (Wednesday, 13 December) to the big end of town….but the presents aren’t for our corporate high flyers, rather for disadvantaged children in South Australia.

Company directors and other leading business people will be coming to lunch, armed with bears, dolls, toys, and other Christmas cheer for a special Christmas fundraising event.

They’ve each been asked to bring a present for children and teenagers who are supported by Mission Australia, one of the country’s leading community service groups.

“Christmas can be a very tough time for many South Australian families who are already struggling with issues like homelessness, family breakdown or mental health issues,” said Mission Australia’s State Manager Mark Herselman.

“Many parents can’t afford presents for their children and feel like they’re letting their children down at such an important time of the year.”

“Mission Australia is therefore very grateful to the Australian Institute of Company Directors for giving a helping hand to families who are trying, often against tremendous odds, to develop positive pathways for the future,” he said.

The Australian Institute of Company Directors Charity Christmas

Luncheon is on today at the Hyatt, from 12 noon to 3pm.

As part of the event, leading Adelaide MC Michael Pratt will also pilot the Great Parachute Debate, a role play game with an all-star cast of panicking passengers, including sports and media personalities Pat Mickan and Tony Pilkington and comedian Dave Flanagan.

For more information or to arrange photo opportunity of business people bearing bears and other gifts, please contact:

Chris Rann, Rann Communication 08 8211 7771 or
David Spear, Australian Institute of Company Directors, 08 8236 2800