Give Geelong Breakfast celebrates resilience, inspiration

Les Richardson, Zac Lewis, Rachael Gunn, Sarah Hayden, Amy Lehpamer and Irwin Senghera at the Give Geelong Breakfast event. Photo: SUPPLIED

ONE of the Give Where You Live Foundation’s longest running fundraising events returned last week with the 2025 Give Geelong Breakfast.

Held at GMHBA Stadium and presented by BBC Digital, the March 21 event was part of the foundation’s Give Geelong Appeal, raising funds to support people in the community facing long-term unemployment, homelessness and food insecurity.

Breakdancer, academic and Olympian Dr Rachael ‘Raygun’ Gunn was this year’s keynote speaker, sharing her story on resilience after intense public scrutiny and offering guests a message about embracing individuality.

“Overnight I became a meme,” she said.

“From the first meme that made fun of me, to the hate directed towards me and my family, there’s been difficult times. I’ve been hated and misjudged for what people think they know about me.

“For me, resilience is ongoing, has no time frame and requires work, and struggle.

“Let’s just be kinder to one another. Don’t be afraid to be different, go out there and represent yourself, you never know where that’s going to take you.”

Give Where You Live Foundation head of fundraising and communications Kristi Clapinski said they were delighted to have Raygun at the event, describing her message as powerful and timely.

“Raygun’s message of self-expression, embracing individuality, and pushing boundaries aligns with our broader efforts to support inclusion and resilience in our community,” she said.

“Her story highlighted the importance of resilience and kindness. She sparked meaningful conversation, fostered empathy, and, I believe, inspired real change.”

Golden Plains Shire mayor, social worker and neurodivergence advocate Sarah Hayden also addressed guests, speaking openly about her personal journey, including her recent ADHD diagnosis, and embracing authenticity.

Amy Lehpamer, event host and musical theatre talent, performed two musical numbers from her repertoire to get the morning started.

Donations can still be made at givewhereyoulive.com.au .

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