A Starry Night at the NGV: Melbourne’s Gala that Moved Hearts
The NGV has hosted its fair share of glittering events, but on Saturday 13 September it became the stage for something different. The JW Foundation’s first Starry Night Gala was an evening of champagne, art and black tie glamour but also a night with real weight behind it.
The first hint that this wasn’t your average society event came at the entrance. Guests were guided through curtains where a mysterious white-gloved hand slipped flutes of champagne into waiting palms. Each glass carried a handwritten quote about the cause, setting the tone that this wasn’t all sequins and selfies.
Among the crowd of more than 400 were familiar faces including designer Brahman Perera, Bec & Chris Judd, and Jacqui Felgate who MC'ed the evening. Between cocktails and canapés (courtesy of Atlantic Group, who worked alongside chefs Stephen Nairn, Shane Delia and Lisa Van Zanten), the Australian Children’s Choir began to sing Wake Me Up When September Ends beneath Kusama’s giant Dancing Pumpkin. The effect was eerie and beautiful, and it reminded everyone why they were there: to support children and families facing tough realities through ToyBox Australia and Duchenne Australia.
Dinner in the Great Hall was described as a “cosmic journey,” with courses punctuated by a live auction and performances from violinist Yena Choi. But the most memorable interlude was Jonathan Webber himself, the man behind the JW Foundation, who spoke about shifting focus from “greed to care.” For Webber who has built billions of dollars’ worth of property projects, this isn’t about legacy measured in square metres but in compassion. His foundation has already partnered with organisations like LifeChanger to back youth mental health programs, and with ToyBox and Duchenne to support children who need urgent help.
ToyBox Australia has raised more than $5 million since 2006, providing medical equipment, therapy, and small moments of joy for kids across the country. Duchenne Australia continues its critical work funding research and family support for those living with muscular dystrophy. Starry Night’s funds went directly to these programs, ensuring that behind the glamour were tangible outcomes.
One guest likened the evening to “Melbourne’s Met Gala,” and the comparison fits. Yes, there were gowns, champagne and big personalities. But there was also a strong through-line: art and generosity working together.
If Starry Night is the benchmark, the JW Foundation has planted itself firmly in Melbourne’s cultural and philanthropic calendar. It wasn’t just a gala, it was a reminder of what’s possible when a community dresses up, shows up, and puts their support behind something that truly matters.
The NGV has hosted its fair share of glittering events, but on Saturday 13 September it became the stage for something different. The JW Foundation’s first Starry Night Gala was an evening of champagne, art and black tie glamour but also a night with real weight behind it.
