Oktoberfest – Thursday 22 October, 2009
Bavarian Hospitality was on show at this year’s Oktoberfest to raise funds for NRMA CareFlight. Now in its 10th year, the event was again an outstanding success with over 400 partygoers turning the Moore Park venue into the most authentic Oktoberfest this side of Bavaria.
Larry Emdur, MC for the night, was flown into the event by the CareFlight Agusta 'Power' helicopter, ably crewed by Captain Greg Ohlssen and Aircrewman Ben Inglis. Upon landing, Larry gave the guests a great rundown on CareFlight and the work the team had been doing on a paediatric mission just an hour or so before.
Traditional Bavarian music continued into the night as schnitzels, pork knuckles, schnapps and Lowenbrau Steins were served.
The NRMA CareFlight Rescue Simulator was on display and many guests took the opportunity to sit inside and experience the noise and sights of a real CareFlight mission. Colin Seiders also brought the 'CareFlight V8 Supercar' to the event, giving partygoers a view of the luxurious interior of a proper racing machine.
The monster auction was well received with over $25,000 being bid for the six major items on offer. CareFlight Bears were sold at $150 each, with one in four winning a major prize. Lucky envelopes were also on offer for $50, $100, $200 and $300, with some amazing gifts given away to the winners.
Thanks go to the volunteers who helped on the night including Dr Sam Bendall, Dr Jessica Green, Karen Casey and the Community Engagement Team.
Special thanks to our hosts for the evening, John and Sandy Szangolies, for their generous support of CareFlight. Over the past decade they have raised over $1 million towards NRMA CareFlight’s lifesaving work.
