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Friends volt in for annual fundraising picnic
At first glance, it’s just a sunny Saturday picnic — friends gathering in Sydney Park with some delicious Latin-American dishes being shared on colourful picnic blankets.
Look a little closer, and you’ll see something more powerful: a celebration of compassion and generosity.
This is the Lunch for Asylum Seekers, an annual community fundraiser organised by over a dozen young humanitarians. The picnic with purpose draws a diverse and generous crowd. All proceeds go towards supporting people seeking safety in our community.
Making the world a better place
The fundraisers embody everything we hope for in the next generation: empathy, initiative, and a genuine passion for making the world a better place.
We spoke to one of the organisers, Angus Cornwell, and asked him why he believes it is vital to support people seeking asylum.
“I am old enough to remember the Tampa affair and Australia’s inhumane treatment of people seeking asylum, including in appalling camps on Nauru and Manus Island, deliberately hidden away from media scrutiny and legal protections.”
“I feel a great sense of shame that we wrote the playbook for cruelty to people asking for refuge, now used by developed countries all over the world.”
“When Australians are good, I think we’re really good, and I hope that each small gesture of support will inch us closer to being a country we can feel proud of.”
This year’s gathering, featuring a Latin-themed menu, raised over $2,500 — smashing their target.
Community and collaboration
Angus shares that the spirit of collaboration is one of the things that makes the picnic so special.
“This year, at least fifteen people are donating vegan dishes. Each of these people is connected to the group in some way, but it might only be through one group member. It’s open to anyone who wants to do it.”
“All the organisers are most generous with their time and contributions, and they are all incredibly talented people.”
The end result is a warm, relaxed, and lovely picnic where all are welcome.
“We have a suggested donation on our page, but not everybody can, and that’s okay. Anyone can join us.”
Strangers to friends
Bellies filled and hearts full, the picnic is a wonderful space for everyone to feast and celebrate how welcoming the Australian community can be.
Their lunches have also started drawing a crowd with an age range that spans decades.
“The youngest contributor is in her early 20s and the oldest are in their 80s.”
For Angus, one of the most touching aspects of the event has been the unexpected friendships and connections it creates.
“It has been a huge privilege to meet many like-minded people, who I didn’t necessarily know before, who want to help and participate. It is equally nice to see them get to know one another, over lunch.”
Thank you Angus and friends!
Interested in holding your own fundraising event? Setting up a page is easy!
