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Variety supporters recognised with Medal of the Order of Australia in Queen’s Birthday Honours
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Two long-time Variety supporters have been recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours.

Robin Henderson of Bash Car 57 (the iconic yellow Ford Mustang) was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the community through charitable initiatives. Robin was one of the founders of the Newcastle Bash (now the Variety NSW Bash) and along with husband Grahame, has over the years completed 32 Variety Bashes. Robin was inducted into the Variety Hall of Fame in 2017 for her fundraising for Variety. Our congratulations to Robin on this well deserved recognition, and our thanks for her selfless support over so many years for kids who are sick, disadvantaged or have special needs.

Scott Gibbons (known affectionately as “Mr Sold”) was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the community through charitable organisations. Following a successful career in real estate for which he won many awards, Scott turned his attention to charitable endeavours, supporting many organisations including Enough is Enough, Foster Care Angels and Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute. For the past 12 years Scott has been a supporter of Variety, donating his time as auctioneer at fundraising events, and has participated in seven Variety 4WD Adventure events, raising funds for kids in need. Our congratulations to Scott on being recognised for his wonderful work for Variety and other charities with an OAM.

It’s only with the generous support of selfless people like Robin and Scott that Variety can continue to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable kids in Australia.

You can read the full list on the Governor Generals website https://www.gg.gov.au/australian-honours-and-awardsaustralian-honours-lists/queens-birthday-2020-honours-list

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Applications Open for Variety Heart Scholarships

Variety – the Children’s Charity NSW/ACT is calling on families to apply for a 2026 Variety Heart Scholarship, offering life-changing support for young people living with disabilities, chronic illness or financial hardship.   The scholarship provides practical, financial assistance to help children aged 8 – 18 years reach their full potential in sport, music and the creative arts, removing barriers and creating opportunities that may otherwise be out of reach.   Whether its funding for specialist equipment, competitions or training programs, the scholarship is designed to empower children to pursue their passions, build their talent and participate fully in their chosen field.  Variety NSW/ACT CEO, Tony Warner, said the program continues to deliver meaningful, long-term impact for families doing it tough.  “Every child deserves the chance to follow their dreams and feel included, regardless of circumstances,” he said.  “The Variety Heart Scholarship is about recognising potential and providing the support needed to help children thrive – on the field, on the stage, and beyond.”  Over the past decade, more than 500 scholarships have been granted with receipients including:  Parents, carers and guardians of eligible children are encouraged to apply now with applications open until Thursday 21 May at 4pm – visit https://nsw.variety.org.au/variety-heart-scholarships/.   Variety Heart Scholarships are made possible by presenting partner, the Grahame Mapp Family Foundation, in honour of the late Gillian Mapp. 

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