2026
In 2026 the Emergency Services Foundation will once again host our Better Together Luncheon.
When
Thursday 18 June 12-3pm
Where
Sofitel on Collins Melbourne
Theme
Beyond the Uniform: lessons in leadership, adversity and human connection.
Speakers
Graeme Simpfendorfer a former Detective Sergeant, Lead Investigator on the nationally acclaimed TV series Hunted Australia, and TEDx presenter, who brings decades of frontline experience into a formidable conversation on leadership, resilience, and decision-making under pressure.
Tony Pearce is an emergency management leader and ESF Board Director with a deep passion for supporting the mental health and wellbeing of first responders. He is currently completing “Tony’s Trek 2026” a 2400km paddle along the Murray River to raise awareness and funds for ESF’s Residential Wellbeing Program.
For information about tickets or sponsorship of this event please contact Naomi nwatt@esf.com.au
2024
On August 14, he Emergency Services Foundation, Hawthorn Football Club, and members and supporters of the Emergency Services community came together for the 2024 Better Together Luncheon.
The Luncheon was held in the lead up the AFL Emergency Services Match to celebrate the 139,000 Victorians who serve our community in times of need.
In a conversation led by Richelle Hunt from ABC Radio, attendees heard how funds raised in 2023 have contributed to ESF’s groundbreaking Residential Wellbeing Program Pilot designed to support those deeply affected by the work they must do. Funds raised from this event will contribute to the development of a Lived Experience Program which, through storytelling, will address stigma and encourage early help-seeking to minimize more serious mental harm.
Congratulations to our raffle prize winners!
- 18 carat white gold, topaz, sapphire, diamond ring handmade by More is More – Winner Greg Dean
- Sofitel on Collins accommodation and breakfast package – Winner Chennell Allan
- Hawthorn FC signed jersey – Winner Tony Walker
- Richmond FC signed jersey – Winner Marica Calati
- Two magnums of Pizzini Prosecco – Winner Greg Dean
2023
2022
ESF brought the sector and many of its supporters together in the lead up to the 2022 AFL Emergency Services Match. The match is a Hawthorn Football Club initiative to celebrate the contribution Victorian emergency service workers make to our community.
ESF CEO Siusan MacKenzie reminded the gathering that while we celebrate, we must also acknowledge the terrible mental toll emergency work can have. Whether they are preparing for, responding to, or helping our community recover from disasters, people can be harmed by what they experience. ‘For too long the focus has been on treating sick people and that is obviously very important, but as a sector we must give more attention upstream to prevent serious and debilitating mental illness,’ she said.
Age journalist John Silvester spoke with four people from the sector who bravely shared heartfelt stories of being profoundly affected by the job and how their journey to recovery invariably involved a strong support crew. They each described a different personal experience that created a ripple effect to impact those around them. These stories illustrated how important it is to recognise the signs and symptoms of distress and to get help early.
