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Jean Claude and Kate Branch at Kirribilli house

img alt="Kate Branch and Jean Claude Branch"

img alt="Kate Branch and Malcom Turnbull"


img alt="Kate Branch at fundraiser"

Having attended this wonderful fundraiser at Kirribilli House once before, my husband Jean-Claude and I were delighted to return this year. As a mother of two, supporting children’s charities is deeply personal to me, and it’s inspiring to see the incredible work these organisations do.

It was another evening full of generosity, inspiration, and hope. The charities supported by the event continue to do extraordinary work:

  • Bear Cottage – NSW’s only children’s hospice, providing support, respite, and end-of-life care for children with terminal illnesses and their families, in a setting designed to feel far from a hospital.

  • Central Coast Kids in Need (CCKIN) – Volunteer-led, this not-for-profit assists local families with accommodation costs while their sick children receive specialised treatment in Sydney or Newcastle hospitals.

  • Muscular Dystrophy NSW – Supporting families affected by muscular dystrophy, particularly boys with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

  • SHINE for Kids – Helping children whose parents are in the criminal justice system, providing crucial support for these ‘invisible victims’ of circumstance.

  • Burns Unit at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead – Caring for major paediatric burns, plastic surgery, and general surgical patients across NSW.

  • The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – Australia – Empowering young Australians aged 14–25 to reach their full potential, especially those in high-need or with special needs.

Returning to this event reminded me why I cherish supporting children’s causes. Each year, it’s inspiring to see the dedication, compassion, and impact of these charities. As a mother of two, it’s a privilege to witness and contribute to the difference they make in young lives.

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