The annual Shannons Christmas Party with the Clubs raised more than $10,000 to support the family of Fujitsu V8 Supercar driver, Ashley Cooper, who died from brain injuries received from a high speed racing accident at the 2008 Clipsal 500 meeting in Adelaide.
Encouraged by Master of Ceremonies Glenn Ridge and guest speaker and Shannons ambassador Jim Richards, more that 300 guests including major car club office bearers dug deep at the Powerhouse on Albert Park Lake in Melbourne on November 29 to generate the funds for Ashley’s partner Casey and their two young children, Ella and Bailey.
The major fund-raising activity was the evening’s Celebrity Auction, with veteran Shannons Auctioneer Bill Wellwood giving a vintage performance, while a raffle for ‘hot laps’ with Jim Richards in his tarmac rally Porsche 911 GT2 raised additional money.
Leading organisations supporting the evening with donated products or services included Network 10 Sport, Exotic Limousines, Mini Customs, Bindara Estate Wines, Endota Spa, Berwick and artist Mike Harbar.
Guests were entertained throughout the evening by classic Rock band Ritchie and the Royals.
The organiser of the night, Shannons Business Development Manager for Victoria, Richard Sanders, said he was very proud to be able to offer some support and comfort to Casey and the children, especially at Christmas time.
“Shannons is a part of the Australian Motor Sport family and it’s wonderful that we are able to help,” he said. “A huge thanks to all those that contributed, both on the night and by donating items for the auction.”
Fund-raising proceeds from the evening are being donated to the Ashley Cooper Foundation via Transplant Australia, which is managing the public appeal for his family through its Trust Account, receiving donations and providing tax-deductible receipts.
All donations to the Ashley Cooper Foundation will be used for the maintenance, advancement and benefit of Ashley’s two children with Transplant Australia remitting 100 per cent of all funds to the family less any bank and credit card fees incurred in the transaction of those funds.
People wishing to donate to the Ashley Cooper Foundation can do so by phoning 1800 827 757, or visiting one of two websites: www.ashleycooper.com.au and www.transplant.org.au