Chance conversation leads to $10k boost for disadvantaged students

A SURPRISE $10,000 donation from bestselling Australian author Jane Harper has given a major boost to the Leopold VIEW Club’s work supporting disadvantaged students.

Ms Harper, who is best-known for her hit novel The Dry, made the donation after a chance conversation at a recent book signing with club delegate Denise Simons, who spoke with the author about the club’s mission and its support for children through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program.

The club, which has more than 50 members, sponsors four children through the program, helping to fund school essentials such as textbooks, uniforms and excursions for students experiencing disadvantage, along with access to supports and services.

The unexpected gift has stunned the members of the Leopold club.

“This donation is truly mind-blowing,” Ms Simons said. “We are overwhelmed by Jane Harper’s generosity and deeply grateful for her support.

“This impact this will have on the lives of students and their families cannot be overstated.”

The funds will be used to sponsor additional students through the Learning for Life program, and to provide essential school supplies, including literacy and numeracy packs.

Leopold VIEW Club president Victoria Trofimovs said the donation would directly translate into real support for young people in need.

“We are inspired, humbled and incredibly thankful,” she said. “This gift will change lives.”

Recognising the strong link between literacy and educational success, the club, which is now in its third year, established an annual ‘Meet the Author’ fundraiser in 2024.

The event has previously featured well-known authors including The Rosie Project creator Graeme Simsion and his partner Anne Buist, and award-winning novelist Jock Serong.

The club has confirmed this year’s event will be held in August and will be headlined by Australian author Kate Mildenhall, who is best known for her debut novel Skylarking.

Harper has been invited to return as a guest at the club’s 2027 event.

VIEW is a nationwide network of women who fundraise for The Smith Family.