CRBF Mother’s Day High Tea 2026

The sun was shining, the sky was blue and the harbour shimmered in the afternoon light, providing a breathtaking backdrop for the 2026 Mother’s Day High Tea at the magnificent Park Hyatt Sydney.

The 2026 Mother’s Day High Tea was a deeply moving and beautifully curated afternoon that brought together patients, families, clinicians, researchers, advocates and supporters in a shared spirit of compassion, resilience and hope. Through heartfelt storytelling, world-class musical performances and meaningful conversation, the event honoured the many forms of motherhood and the extraordinary strength of families impacted by sarcoma.

Hosted with exceptional warmth, grace and professionalism by Melissa Hoyer, the afternoon carried a genuine sense of connection and care from beginning to end. Now in her fifth year of unwavering support for the Mother’s Day High Tea, Melissa’s thoughtful and empathetic presence has become synonymous with the event itself, helping create an atmosphere that is both deeply meaningful and warmly welcoming for patients, families and supporters alike.

The afternoon commenced with a touching patient tribute video and formal welcome from the Honourable Trish Henry – CRBF Chair, setting the tone for an event grounded in empathy, remembrance and purpose.

Guests then heard from the remarkable Kaela Graham-Bowman, a devoted mother and wife, veteran, and nurse, living with synovial sarcoma, whose courage, honesty and vulnerability resonated profoundly throughout the room.

Exquisite opera performances by Carly-Anne Evans, including O Mio Babbino Caro and Ave Maria, offered poignant moments of reflection and elegance, adding another layer of beauty and emotion to the afternoon.

A particularly powerful discussion, A Legacy of Love Driven by Purpose, explored how unimaginable personal loss can inspire enduring impact. Hosted by Mitchell Rice-Brading, the conversation featured Leanne Hardyman, mother of Tom “forever 20,” alongside Professor Mandy Ballinger and Professor David Thomas, who head the UNSW Centre for Molecular Oncology. Together, they highlighted the transformative role of research, advocacy and philanthropy in improving outcomes for sarcoma patients and their families.  Leanne was both courageous and thought provoking with her words, which resonated with many in the room.

Guests then enjoyed an elegant afternoon tea accompanied by a classical recital from the Luxe Strings string trio, creating a sophisticated yet intimate atmosphere of warmth, reflection and community.

The programme continued with the discussion Strength Beyond Survival – Life Reimagined after Sarcoma and Amputation, hosted by Professor Richard Boyle. Jessica Cook and Carmen Scheffer bravely and eloquently shared deeply personal reflections on rebuilding identity, discovering resilience and embracing life after profound physical and emotional adversity.

An uplifting moments came as Mark Mathot shared the remarkable story of his son Jac, who, after receiving genomically matched experimental treatment, is now cancer free some 18 months later, a powerful testament to the promise of precision medicine and the life-changing importance of continued research support.

The afternoon concluded on a lighter note with an interactive and entertaining segment led by Mitchell Rice-Brading, touching on topics provided to him in advance, ranging from the toilet and plumbing issues experienced by eminent neurologist Prof John Watson to the unintended humiliation of his soon to be ex colleagues – bringing moments of laughter and levity to the room.

Melissa and Mitch then announced the afternoon’s prizes before the Honourable Trish Henry closed the event with heartfelt thanks and reflections.

Special thanks were extended to Gloria Gapes, together with Dyan and Paris Comino, whose tireless work both in the lead-up to and throughout the day ensured the seamless delivery of such a memorable event. Their dedication, generosity and commitment were instrumental in bringing the afternoon to life.

We also gratefully acknowledge Flowers by Min for the magnificent cream roses that adorned the room and the beautiful bouquets prepared for our special mothers, adding elegance and warmth to an already extraordinary setting.

Above all, the 2026 Mother’s Day High Tea was a celebration of love in all its forms, honouring mothers, caregivers, families and those who stand beside others through life’s most difficult moments. It was an afternoon that balanced reflection with hope, elegance with authenticity, and storytelling with purpose, while raising vital awareness and support for the ongoing fight against sarcoma.

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