ABOUT 250 locals were up bright and early to join the Give Where You Live Foundation’s 2026 Give Geelong Breakfast for a celebration of community, resilience and inspiration.<\/p>\n
Proudly presented by BBC Digital, the Give Geelong Breakfast is a key part of the foundation’s Give Geelong Appeal.<\/p>\n
All proceeds from the breakfast event raise important funds to support the foundation’s annual grants program, providing vital funding to local organisations delivering frontline support in the areas of food security, homelessness assistance and inclusive employment across the region.<\/p>\n
This year’s keynote speaker, Madeleine West, shared her deeply personal story of resilience and empathy, courage and connection, and encouraged us to see the humanity in our society.<\/p>\n
“We need to be focusing less on what divides us, and more on what unites us,” she said. “The proof of mankind’s evolution is never more potent than when man is kind.”<\/p>\n
Sharing her knowledge of the dangers of social media and the internet for our kids, Madeleine offered some practical solutions and reminded us of the need to switch off our phones.<\/p>\n
“Mindlessly scrolling on social media, all it gives you is a front row seat to watch the world pass you by,” she said.<\/p>\n
Give Where You Live Foundation chief executive, Zac Lewis, said the foundation was delighted to have Madeleine West at the Give Geelong Breakfast, describing her message as thought provoking and timely.<\/p>\n
“The Give Where You Live Foundation exists to create a fairer community and drive positive social change,” he said. “Madeleine’s message of resilience, empathy and connection strongly aligns with our aims to support our community.<\/p>\n
“Madeleine brought insight, warmth and courage to the Give Geelong Breakfast stage, while sharing her experiences of adversity and building resilience.”<\/p>\n
The long-standing event was proudly presented by BBC Digital, and supported by first time sponsor, Australian Skin Face Body.<\/p>\n
Guests were treated to a special performance from local musical theatre identity, Natalie O’Donnell.<\/p>\n
Zac Lewis said the foundation was grateful for the community’s support of the Give Geelong Breakfast.<\/p>\n
“It was great to see the community come together and support the Give Geelong Breakfast, ultimately raising funds to support our annual grants program through the Give Geelong Appeal,” he said.<\/p>\n
“This support means we can fund practical, proven solutions and ensure local organisations can keep showing up for the people who need them most.”<\/p>\n