Following the success of the inaugural Madd Charity Ball, which raised over $120,000 for sick children last year, the event's founder is calling on the mortgage and banking industry to support this year’s event.
Developed by George Samios (pictured above), director of Queensland-based brokerage Madd loans, this year’s Madd Ball Circus Spectacular continues the deep collaboration with the Children’s Hospital Foundation.
The ball, scheduled for Saturday, November 25, at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, is expected to attract over 500 guests.
“Come down to Brisbane and be prepared to be mesmerised by the captivating sights and sounds of the circus while supporting children who need our help,” said Samios. “If you can’t make it in person, show your support by entering the raffle – you might win a new Hyundai Venue.”
Samios was inspired to create the event a few years ago after attending a charity ball hosted by Australian cafe chain The Coffee Club.
“Seeing 1,000 people gathered for a great cause, entertained by celebrities and performers, was truly inspiring. Such events are rare nowadays, but The Coffee Club's dedication to raising funds for a worthy cause was remarkable,” Samios said. “Their passion inspired me, and I wanted to create something similar.”
Samios and his team initially planned their own event, but it was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This unexpected delay, however, provided an opportunity to establish the Madd Giving Back Association, which played a crucial role in bringing the charity ball to life.
“The first ball’s theme was ‘A Night in Greece’, reflecting my Greek heritage and the significant Greek presence in our company,” Samios said. “We raised $121,612 for the Children's Hospital Foundation, far exceeding my expectations. The event was a resounding success.”
While Samios originally sought sponsors through the industry, he was knocked back by many banks due to them not wanting to appear partial towards any particular brokerage.
However, Samios insists the Madd Charity Ball is “not a broker event; it's a community-driven initiative to give back”.
“Our loyal customers, family, and friends, along with generous donations from local businesses, support our cause,” Samios said.
“The outpouring of community spirit is truly heartwarming. We're confident we'll surpass last year's fundraising record, but we’d love the industry to jump onboard too.”
This year's theme is “Circus Spectacular”, featuring a stellar lineup: Matt Hollywood, one of Australia's most celebrated illusionists; Vince Sorrenti, a renowned comedian; The Amici band; and a Queen tribute band flown in especially for the occasion.
Samios said The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre would undergo a “magical transformation”, transporting guests to a dazzling carnival circus wonderland that included everything from stilt walkers to a sideshow alley.
There will also be a silent auction, where participants can bid on everything from luxury escapes to Bali and the Great Barrier Reef to signed football boots of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Samios said he hoped to put on a good show because he was “incredibly grateful” for the support of the Brisbane community.
“Even though there are many mortgage brokers to choose from, people continue to come to us for their mortgage needs,” Samios said.
“While we've been blessed with success, we feel it's our responsibility to give back. It's not always easy, and it often requires late nights and weekend work, but our committee members are fully committed to making this event a success.”
Considering last year’s success, the Children’s Hospital Foundation, beneficiary of the donations from the Madd Charity Ball, was “incredibly thankful”.
Lyndsey Rice, the foundation’s CEO, said the energy and enthusiasm of George Samios and the wider Madd community was “extraordinary”.
“We would like to thank every person who has, and will, support these events in any way,” said Rice. “Everyone who attends, sponsors, donates, bids in the silent auction or purchases a car raffle ticket, you truly are amazing.”
“We exist for every kid that ever needs us, no matter who, where or when. All illnesses, injuries, and conditions – today, tomorrow and for every future generation.
“All the money raised will help fund cutting-edge equipment, vital research and on the ground support for kids throughout Queensland and northern New South Wales.”
For Samios, the decision to make the Children’s Hospital Foundation as the charity of choice was an easy one.
“I have three healthy children, and I can't imagine the pain of having a sick child. So, we want to lead by example and be a company that actively gives back,” Samios said.
“Madd stands for 'Making a Difference Daily,' and that's what we strive to do. We want to make a positive impact on people's lives, and the Madd ball is a testament to that commitment.”
Much like The Coffee Club ball inspired him, Samios hopes he can motivate others to make a positive impact.
“I believe that when you do good, others are inspired to do the same. Even if you only inspire one person out of a thousand, that's a significant achievement. I was that one person inspired by the Coffee Club, and I hope to inspire others in the same way,” Samios said.
“The more good you do in the world, the more good comes back to you. That's how it works. We'll continue to do more good because we believe that no child should have to suffer."
To buy tickets to the event, click here.
