High Tea for Hope 2026

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon at the beautiful 1 Hotel Melbourne with Cathy Freeman AC, Olympic champion and proud Kuku Yalanji and Birri Gubba woman who captured hearts around the world with her gold medal win at the Sydney 2000 Olympics. Cathy will share her powerful story of resilience, determination, and the legacy she continues to build both on and off the track.

The program will be expertly guided by esteemed broadcaster and 3AW host George Donikian, whose longstanding presence in Australian media brings both warmth and gravitas to the occasion.

📍 1 Hotel Melbourne

📅 Sunday 24 May 2026

🕑 2 to 5:30PM

🎟️ $225 plus GST per person

Your experience includes: high tea menu and 3.5 hour beverage package (sparkling, white wine, red wine, beer, soft drinks, juice, tea and coffee).

Individual tickets, along with tables of eight are available, priced at $1,950, providing a wonderful way to attend alongside friends, colleagues, or guests.

All proceeds go to You Matter, helping provide essential support to women and children impacted by family violence. Do not miss this extraordinary afternoon of inspiration, hope, and community.🧡

Cathy Freeman’s journey is one of courage, achievement, and inspiration. From winning her first race at eight years old to becoming the first Aboriginal Australian to win Olympic gold, Cathy has broken barriers and captured hearts worldwide.

At the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, she made history by lighting the Olympic flame and winning gold in the 400m, a moment that became iconic across the globe. Today she continues to inspire through her advocacy and work empowering future generations.

An esteemed broadcaster and current 3AW host, George will expertly guide the program with warmth, wisdom, and professionalism.

With a rich career spanning radio, television, and major global events, George’s work is a testament to storytelling with integrity and a deep commitment to the diverse communities he proudly represents. He brings a unique perspective on communication, culture, and the power of sharing stories that truly matter.

1 Hotel Melbourne

To make the experience even more special, High Tea for Hope attendees can enjoy an exclusive 30% off accommodation* at 1 Hotel Melbourne for the event. It’s the perfect way to extend your day and enjoy everything this remarkable space has to offer.

Once you’ve secured your event ticket, please contact us for booking details.

*discount off standard rack rates

Transport Options

IMPORTANT: please use caution if using Apple Maps - if coming from Flinders Street, DO NOT continue on Wurundjeri Way. Instead, turn left into Siddeley Street then continue onto Maritime Place.

• Rideshare or Taxi to 1 Hotel Melbourne, 9 Maritime Place, Melbourne, Vic 3006 

• Free Tram Line directly outside 1 Hotel Melbourne – The Goods Shed - Stop D5

• Southern Cross Station & Sky Bus 750m from 1 Hotel

• Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) is a 5 minute stroll across the connecting footbridge.

Parking Options

• Valet Parking is available at $60.00 day use and $80.00 for overnight parking

  • Electric vehicle charging stations available onsite for valet cars

• Self-Parking is available at the adjacent Nationwide Parking - World Trade Centre