As the saying goes, from little things, big things grow, and this was certainly the case for the now annual affair, Gather & Graze. Initially it was a fundraising event that was hosted by four close friends that kickstarted the need for this annual event. It was a close friend who had been diagnosed with breast cancer at the young age of 27 that prompted a small group of friends to band together. The group was successful in raising a total of $50,395 which was split between Monique and Breast Cancer Network Australia. Following this, the group established a fundraising event committee called Gather & Graze.
Since its commencement in 2019, Gather & Graze has been raising awareness and funds for a number of local Toowoomba charities and as one of the founding members, our Managing Director, Lachlan Hogan, proudly contributes to its operation each and every year. From the immense efforts of the Gather & Graze founding members, countless sponsors and the support of local businesses, this event has quickly become a must on the calendar for many Toowoomba locals.
In February of 2021, Gather & Graze hosted a two-day event consisting of completely sold-out lunches at The Dairy in Ravensbourne. A total of $66,000 was raised for the chosen charity, Drought Angels. A Chinchilla based organisation whose mission is to support and provide resources and funding for farmers across Australia.
Continuing into 2022, a black-tie gala was hosted in the CBD of Toowoomba at The Goods Shed, with over 400 guests in attendance. This event saw funds raised over $300,000 for Hope Horizons, a local cancer wellness centre.
In 2023, the event called for a bigger and grander space, with over 500 people in attendance, the event took place on Toowoomba Grammar School’s Old Boys’ oval, featuring the most gorgeous tent embellished with countless decorations. This saw funds raised over $370,000 for Tony’s Community Kitchen to assist in multiple facility upgrades and general maintenance.