The event was promoted by the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of St John of Jerusalem, Knights of Malta, and organised by Sam Restifa in memory of his late wife, Dame Teresa Todaro Restifa.
Around 300 guests attended, bringing together members of the Italian-Australian community, representatives from community organisations and supporters of scientific research, united by a clear goal: to raise funds for childhood brain cancer research, one of the most complex and devastating forms of cancer affecting children.
Throughout the evening, the values and mission of the Order—long committed to serving the most vulnerable—were presented, along with details of the research project that will benefit from the funds raised.
Thanks to the generosity of those present, approximately $80,000 was collected. The proceeds will support the Australian Cancer Research Foundation’s program dedicated to the early diagnosis, prevention and treatment of childhood cancer.
The funds will specifically contribute to the purchase of specialised equipment for the management and preservation of biological samples—a crucial step in accelerating research and developing increasingly targeted and personalised therapies.
A central moment of the evening was devoted to remembering Teresa Todaro Restifa, whose commitment to community support and humanitarian causes was honoured.
Her legacy lives on through initiatives capable of transforming private grief into a collective act of responsibility and hope.
“This evening was born from the desire to honour Teresa,” Sam Restifa said. “Supporting research means offering real hope to children and families facing this illness every day.
“It’s a commitment I feel deeply, both as a husband and as a member of the community.
“I wish to express my sincere thanks to the committee—Angela Panzerino, Filippa Indovino, Jennifer Rose, Natalie Gueris, Norma Jackson-Snow and Celeste Jackson-Snow—whose work was fundamental and invaluable.”
The gala dinner also featured a fundraising raffle and special prizes, which significantly contributed to the total sum collected.
Beyond the figures, however, what stood out most was the strong sense of unity, shared purpose and the understanding that scientific research relies on the support of the broader community—often through events such as these.
The event once again demonstrated the Italian community’s commitment to turning the values of generosity and service into tangible results—where memory becomes action and action becomes hope for so many children.
