Belgravia Foundation event raises over $63,000 for inclusive communities

The Belgravia Foundation has advised that its 2025 Inspiration Breakfast has raised over $63,000 for inclusive communities.

Held at Melbourne’s Zinc, Federation Square on 13th February and attracting 225 people, the event was a reminder of what’s possible when a community unites to break down barriers and ensure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of aquatics, recreation, fitness and sport.

Under the theme ‘Through partnership, we can achieve more!’, attendees heard inspiring speeches and powerful conversations about how partnerships can drive meaningful change - hearing from leaders, advocates and changemakers who are shaping a more inclusive future for all.

By the end of the morning, an incredible $63,417 had been raised.

Noting that the event provided proof of what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared mission, Belgravia Foundation Chief Executive, Dr Jeff Walkley advised “a key focus of the event was the role of partnerships in driving positive change.

“We were able to make a real impact in 2024, with initiatives like the MHeLP Program, which saw 7,500 completions supporting mental health and wellbeing. The YouMeUs Training reached 14,000 completions, raising awareness and education on inclusion. The All In! initiative also attracted strong interest from organisations eager to collaborate on improving access to leisure.”

Tim Buckley took the stage in an emotional moment - once bedridden, he now walks with confidence, a transformation he credits to Immersion Therapy at WaterMarc.

He explained “my wife Nikki and I, we’ve got our life back” sharing his journey of overcoming challenges and regaining mobility that served as a powerful testament to the impact of inclusive health initiatives, inspiring everyone in the room.

Keynote speaker Associate Professor Michelle Lim, Chief Executive of Ending Loneliness Together, delivered an eye-opening presentation on the widespread issue of loneliness in Australia. Her research, supported by the Belgravia Foundation, reinforced the critical role leisure and recreation play in fostering connection and wellbeing.

Brooke Hanson led a panel discussion featuring diverse voices on improving access and inclusion in leisure spaces. Panellists included Paralympian Matthew Haanappel, sharing insights as a person with a disability and long-time aquatic sector leader, and Dr Ryan Storr, discussing challenges and opportunities for LGBTIQA+ inclusion in recreation.

The event also showcased emerging partnerships, including a groundbreaking initiative supporting victim-survivors of intimate partner violence through group exercise, presented by Thea Baker.

Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, donors and attendees, the event raised significant funds to support initiatives for inclusion and accessibility in leisure.

The organisers extended special thanks to Belgravia Group, Belgravia Leisure, Cleaning Melbourne, Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, Highlander Minerals, Asahi Beverages, Kenstra, Bidfoods, NovoFit, Port Phillip Distillery, Sovereign Hill, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium and Complete Office Supplies. Photography was generously donated by Bruce Laverty of Bubblepics.

Dr Walkley went on to say “Belgravia Foundation thanks all attendees, sponsors and partners for their commitment to making leisure accessible to all. A special thank you to Geoff Lord, Chairman and CEO of Belgravia Group for his generous personal donation, which will make a significant impact on those who need it most.

“All funds raised will directly support expanding access to activities, developing inclusive programs and fostering partnerships that improve health and wellbeing across the country. Together, we can break down barriers and ensure no one is left behind.”

Click here to learn more on the Belgravia Foundation website.

Images: The 2025 Belgravia Foundation Inspiration Breakfast - with Geoff Lord, Chairman and Chief Executive of the Belgravia Group in the foreground (top) and Belgravia Foundation Chief Executive Dr Jeff Walkley speaks during the event (below). Credit: Bruce Laverty of Bubblepics.