World Lebanese Cultural Union
On Saturday, 3 August 2024, the WLCU of Sydney hosted its 2024 Gala dinner, themed Lebanese and League, in the distinguished Grand Ballroom of Royal Randwick Racecourse in Sydney. This followed a successful lunch three years ago, where we raised funds to support The Cedars, Lebanon’s national rugby league team.
The evening was a wonderful celebration of the achievements of Lebanese and Australian icons in the sport of Rugby League. As WLCU Sydney President Dr Shane Geha explained: “It is amazing to see worldwide the legendary Phoenician spirit: that innate ability to thrive and flourish against all the odds, a trait that has made the Lebanese worldwide, so successful in business; literature; medicine; and of course sport. And in Australia and New South Wales, this has manifested in sports like Rugby League, with superstars like: Benny Elias; Mitch Moses; Tim Mannah; Robbie Farah and many more, all exhibiting supreme sporting excellence and of course embodying that famed Phoenician fighting spirit.”
The 300 guests at the event were treated to a curated three-course meal, accompanied by a selection of Lebanese wines and arak, delicious mezze and platters of mixed baklawa and mixed maamoul. WLCU Sydney President Dr Shane Geha moderated insightful interviews with a panel of reputable Rugby League legendary players, including Benny Elias, Luke Ricketson, Greg Florimo and Tim Mannah.
It was a splendid night of fun, food, wine and sport, celebrating the achievements and funnier moments in the sport of Rugby League and the contributions and success of the Lebanese. We were also entertained by Lebanese comedian Sam McCool.
All net proceeds will be donated to those in need in Lebanon and we thank our many sponsors for their continued support.
