Celebrating 30 Years of Brainwave Australia at the National Gallery of Victoria
EVENT DETAILS
Date
Time
Location
National Gallery of Victoria
180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne
Dress
Tickets
On Saturday, 29 August 2026, Brainwave Australia invites you inside one of Australia’s most iconic cultural institutions, the National Gallery of Victoria, for a 30th Anniversary Great Gatsby Gala.
Held beneath the soaring stained-glass ceiling, this milestone evening brings together supporters, partners and leaders to mark three decades of trusted support for families caring for children with neurological conditions.
For one night, the Great Hall becomes a space not only of art and architecture, but of community and generosity.
30 Years of Impact
For 30 years, Brainwave Australia has walked alongside families when life takes an unexpected turn.
Since 1996, what began as a small, family-focused organisation has grown into a national charity partnering with every children’s hospital in Australia.
Today, Brainwave supports more than 1,800 families across Australia, with over 300 new families registering annually. Support extends from hospital to home - adapting as children grow and family needs evolve.
This Gala not only marks a significant milestone, it is a moment of momentum.
Support from this evening helps ensure Brainwave can continue to be there for families today, tomorrow and for the next generation who will need us.
The Gala Experience
Guests will arrive via red carpet and be welcomed at the NGV Water Wall before gathering beneath the glass ceiling for:
- A refined three-course dining experience showcasing seasonal produce and premium wines
- Silent and live auctions featuring rare and highly sought-after experiences
- Live entertainment from comedian Lehmo and a dynamic live band
- Dancing in one of Melbourne’s most celebrated cultural spaces
Tables are limited. Early bookings are encouraged.
About Brainwave Australia
Brainwave Australia supports families caring for children with brain injuries, illnesses and neurological conditions.
When a child is diagnosed with a complex neurological condition or experiences a brain injury, life changes quickly. Hospital care is often followed by years of therapy, equipment needs and ongoing coordination. The urgency may shift - but the complexity remains.
Brainwave works in this space. We provide personalised, connection-focused support tailored to each family’s needs. This may include therapy and equipment funding, hospital packs, emergency accommodation, new peer networks, advocacy and opportunities for families to gather without explanation.
Today, Brainwave supports more than 1,800 families across Australia, partnering with all children’s hospitals and remaining present well beyond the initial crisis. For three decades, Brainwave has helped families ride the waves of childhood brain conditions - steady, responsive and grounded in lived experience.
Funds raised through our 30th Anniversary Great Gatsby Gala help ensure this support will continue for another 30 years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What time does the evening begin?
Guests are invited to arrive from 6.30pm for a 7.00pm commencement. The Gala will conclude at 11.00pm.
Is the venue accessible?
The National Gallery of Victoria is fully accessible. If you or your guests have specific access requirements, please contact our team in advance so we can assist. Further information is also available here.
Where can I park, or how do I get to the National Gallery of Victoria?
The National Gallery of Victoria is located at 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne.
Parking is available at nearby public car parks, including:
- Arts Centre Melbourne Car Park
- Federation Square Car Park
- Secure Parking (St Kilda Road)
The NGV is also easily accessible via tram routes along St Kilda Road and Swanston Street.
We recommend allowing additional time for arrival, particularly on Saturday evenings.
To find out more information, visit this page.
What is the dress code?
Black Tie, with a touch of Gatsby glamour.
How do I provide guest names and dietary requirements?
The dietary requirements of yourself or your guests can be entered after checkout on the Registration Confirmation Page, when you are entering the table guests’ details.
To add them at a later date, you may log in to your dashboard to submit guest details, including dietary requirements. Details are requested by Friday, 14 August 2026 to assist with seating and catering arrangements.
To login to your dashboard, click here
Dietary requirements must be received by 14th August 2026.
Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or require assistance via: events@brainwave.org.au
Can I participate in the live and silent auctions if I'm not in attendance at the event?
Our renowned silent and live auctions return in 2026, featuring exclusive items and remarkable experiences.
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Silent Auction: Opens online Monday, 24 August, accessible to both attendees and non-attendees.
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Live Auction: Engage in an exciting live bidding experience on gala night. The live auction is only open to gala attendees.
Can I purchase tickets via invoice or EFT?
Yes. Please contact events@brainwave.org.au to request your invoice, including the details for whom it should be made out to, and we’ll arrange this for you.
Can I purchase individual tickets?
Yes, Individual tickets and tables of eight are available, subject to availability.
A single ticket is $295 incl gst, and a table of 8 is $2,360 incl gst.
Are tickets limited?
Yes. Capacity in the NGV Great Hall is limited to approximately 300–350 guests. Tables and individual tickets are available until allocation is reached.
Early booking is recommended.
What is Gala sponsorship, and how does it work?
Sponsorship provides organisations with the opportunity to align with Brainwave’s 30th Anniversary Gala. while contributing to the continued support of families across Australia.
Partnership packages include brand recognition, hosted tables, and on-the-night acknowledgement. Sponsorship opportunities are limited and offered on a first-confirmed basis.
For further details, please email kristin.flanagan@brainwave.org.au for our sponsorship packages
How can I learn more about Brainwave Australia?
We welcome any questions and are pleased to provide further information.
Where does the money raised go?
Funds raised through the 30th Anniversary Gala support Brainwave’s personalised, connection-focused support for families caring for children with neurological conditions.
This may include therapy and equipment funding, hospital packs, emergency accommodation support, advocacy, and family connection programs.
Support extends beyond moments of crisis - adapting as children grow and family needs evolve.
Brainwave Australia currently supports over 1,800 children across Australia, and over 300 new families will reach out to us for support this year.
Contact Us
- Phone: 1300 766 819
- Email: events@brainwave.org.au
We look forward to welcoming you to an evening that not only promises great memories but an evening that delivers a lasting impact to Brainwave Families when they need it most.
