MP for Manly James Griffin MP and Emma Laubi
On Thursday 18 June, 200 local Manly residents, businesses, organisations and community leaders gathered for the bi-annual Manly Hospice Gala to raise vital funds for the Manly Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice (AYAH), and the young people and families it supports.
The sold-out event, held at Manly Wharf Events Space against the stunning backdrop of Sydney Harbour, brought together supporters from across the Northern Beaches in a powerful demonstration of the community's commitment to the hospice.
As Australia’s first dedicated young adult hospice, the Manly AYAH fills a long-standing gap in clinical care for young people with lime-limiting illnesses who historically would transition from children's palliative services into adult facilities. Through its innovative model, the first-of-its-kind facility enables young people aged between 16 and 30 to receive age-appropriate care in an environment designed to recognise and celebrate the important milestones of young adulthood.
Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales, attended as the Guest of Honour and delivered a captivating address recognising the extraordinary role the AYAH plays in providing specialised care and respite for young people living with life-limiting illnesses and their families.
Guests also heard a deeply moving fireside conversation between James Griffin MP and Emma Laubi, who shared the story of her late brother, Felix, who received care at the AYAH. Speaking with remarkable courage and grace, Ms Laubi reflected on the exceptional care and compassion shown to Felix during his time at the hospice, and the comfort her family experienced in being able to stay close to him and share precious moments together.
Her Excellency The Hon Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales
In his address, Mr Griffin paid tribute to the many community members, organisations and supporters in attendance, and those whose vision and generosity helped bring this remarkable facility to life. Among those acknowledged was the late Kay Van Norton Poche AO, a local Manly resident whose extraordinary philanthropy was instrumental in securing the funds needed to construct the facility.
"There are so many people in our community who have contributed to making this remarkable facility a reality," Mr Griffin said.
"The AYAH is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with compassion and a shared determination to ensure young people facing the most difficult circumstances receive the dignity, care and support they deserve."
The evening was a powerful demonstration of the generosity that defines the Manly community, with local businesses, organisations and supporters contributing an array of auction items and prizes, and guests coming together in support of the hospice and the young people and families it serves.
While final figures are yet to be confirmed as more donations continue to come in, the tally should approach $100,000 in funds raised. This is testament to the compassion shown by those in attendance and the many individuals and organisations whose contributions helped make the event possible.
Located on the former Manly Hospital site at North Head, the Manly Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice first opened its doors in 2023 and has since cared for more than 346 patients. Managed and partially funded by NSW Health, the facility relies heavily on donations to sustain its world-class model of care. Today, the AYAH stands as a pioneering model of care and a source of immense pride for the Manly community.
This was the third Bi-annual Gala Dinner which has previously been held at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Pilu Freshwater, and most recently at Manly Wharf Events space.
MP for Manly James Griffin Addressing the 2026 Bi-Annual Manly Hospice Gala