Body Cage

15th May 2003 marked the inaugural Eating Disorders Foundation Charity Fundraising Ball 'THE FABULOUS FEAST' at the prestigious Cruising Yacht Club in Rushcutters Bay, Sydney.

After months of tireless planning and organising by a dedicated team of EDF Volunteers, the evening was a stunning success raising over $40,000 for the Eating Disorders Foundation (NSW) Inc.

Opening Speech - Melinda Hutchings, Chair EDF Fundraising Committee and MC

Good evening ladies and gentleman and distinguished guests. My name is Melinda Hutchings and as Chair of the fundraising committee it is my pleasure to welcome each and every one of you to this, our inaugural fundraising black tie dinner THE FABULOUS FEAST. For those of you who don't know me, I am the author of two books on eating disorders, based on my own experiences. I recovered from anorexia fifteen years ago and subsequently years later, wrote both my books to help people understand the seriousness of eating disorders and how to come to terms with not only the process, but the devastating consequences. I launched a website to further promote positive body image and increase the awareness of the dangers of dieting. To date my site bodycage.com has had in excess of 260,000 hits, which just goes to show how many people in the world are affected in some way by this illness, whether it's someone they love, or they themselves suffering.

Melinda Hutchings and Tara Moss

I first met the Chairperson of EDF Amanda Jordan three years ago. Writing my books and speaking in the media led me to get to know the work of the EDF and I soon became a pro-active member, working alongside Amanda and her dedicated volunteer team to help spread the word about positive body image. Amanda and I both shared the same vision - to somehow make a difference in society through decreasing the alarming incidence of anorexia and bulimia, particularly amongst young adults. As Chair of the fundraising committee it is my role to ensure EDF maintains the funding to continue and expand on our work. And with 1 in 4 teenagers experimenting with dangerous dieting behaviour, there is so much that needs doing.

Melinda with her father, Vic Nevill

We are honoured to have the suport of Maserati and their family tonight and that such a marque, that is associated with high Italian fashion, has come out in force to show their desire to support healthy women. We have been overwhelmed by all the high profile corporations from many different walks of business who have readily leant their hand and chequebook to help prevent this deadly illness affecting our sons, daughters, relatives and loved ones.

Tara Moss & friend, Melinda Hutchings, Vince Sorrenti

We at the EDF cannot begin to demonstrate how grateful we are for the support of these companies especially Tony Graziani from Maserati, Sally Morgan from Hayman Island, Diana Smith from ipac and Mia Freedman from Cosmopolitan magazine. I would especially like to welcome our very distinguised guests from sporting heros to media personalities and celebrities. People such as Mark Edmondson, John Konrads, Tara Moss and Vince Sorrenti.

Melinda Hutchings and Mary Orenstein

This night has been put together for you to not only have a great time, and donate some big bucks, but also, when you leave here (hopefully with wallets a little lighter) you will have a greater understanding of why together, we must stop our teenagers from suffering and dying.

For more information on the Eating Disorders Foundation (NSW) Inc. go to http://www.edsn.asn.au/

next page >>