On October 28, over 500 guests were privileged to be part of the annual Bradman Foundation Gala Dinner held on the hallowed turf at the SCG. It was a night of incredible stories, heartfelt tributes and inspirational interviews. All were there to honour past and present cricketers who embody the Bradman values of courage, honour, humility, integrity and determination.
Richie Benaud OBE made a heartfelt and very genuine tribute to the 2011 Bradman Honourees, former Australian Captain and Coach Bob Simpson AO and international Honouree Sir Richard Hadlee. Hearing Benaud’s stories of the two players and listening to his in-depth and very personal history of their careers was a real privilege and certainly a highlight of the night.
“The Honoree segment of the evening is always a highlight, but I think this year it was really special, to hear Richie talk so openly and honestly about men he has played with and commentated on over many decades was just incredible.” Rina Hore, Bradman Foundation Executive Director
Guests were also captivated by the cricket conversation between four legends of the game Sir Richard Hadlee, Bobby Simpson, Mark Taylor and Michael Slater. To have all four on stage and in conversation together was a rare and memorable occasion. The cross-generational cricket conversation was fascinating, Bobby Simpson coached Mark Taylor as Captain and Sir Richard Hadlee played against Mark Taylor.
The evening also featured Mike Coward in conversation with three Bradman Scholars, the 2006 Scholar Madhu Bhamidipaty who is currently studying medicine at the University of Western Australia, the 2008 Scholar David Miller and the 2011 Scholar Andrew Lowe, both of whom are studying Sports Science. These young men exemplify the Bradman values and their commitment to education, sport and the community are truly inspirational.
“These young men are just incredible, they really do themselves and the Bradman name proud. To have the opportunity to support them and for them to so willingly share their time, knowledge and experience with others is so gratifying.” Rina Hore.
The Bradman Foundation was thrilled to announce the return of Kerry O’Keefe after a two-year hiatus, O’Keefe will return as a special guest for the 2012 event.
