Date 31.12.08:

Chairman's Message

As 2008 draws to a close, on behalf of Radiomarathon Trust, I thank you all for your support in making it another successful year of fundraising in Australia.

This Year, once again we witnessed an outpouring of generosity from the Radiomarathon community. Supporters from all walks of life came together to raise funds for kids whose lives have been affected by severe physical or mental disabilities.

The incredible success of NSW Dinner Dance in Sydney and Radio Appeal in Melbourne has renewed our dedication to the worthy cause of Radiomarathon and encouraged us to continue our efforts in making a difference to the lives of these kids. The funds raised will make a significant contribution to the quality of life enjoyed by these children, by providing much needed assistance through the purchase of equipment, or alleviating some of the financial pressure that burdens many special schools and the families of these children.

Thank you and a very happy new year!
Michalis Athanasiou, Chairman, Radiomarathon Trust

Radiomarathon 2008 Official Launch at St George College, SA

Radiomarathon 2008 officially began with the annual support of the St George College Adelaide. This year the students and staff assisted Laiki Bank employees in Adelaide to launch the 12th year of fundraising, at a cocktail reception attended by over 120 guests, on 28th of August 2008.

The Hon. Tom Kousantonis MP, Member for Hindmarsh, representing the Premier of South Australia officially declared the launch of Radiomarathon 2008 open. The guests, including several dignitaries, enjoyed drinks and food prepared and served by the enthusiastic and highly competent students.

Dignitaries attending the event include His Grace Bishop Nikandros of Dorileon, The Hon. Mike Rann, Mr. Dimitrios Georgiadis, Deputy Chairman of St George College, Mrs. Julie O’Leary from Disability S.A., the Very Reverend Fr. Dioganis Patsouris, Director of St George College, Mr. Evan Christou, President of The Greek Orthodox Community & Parish of St. George Thebarton & Western Suburbs.

Speaking at the event, Mrs. O’Leary congratulated Laiki Bank’s determination in organising Radiomarathon every year. She also thanked Radiomarathon for its valuable support to Disability South Australia, an organisation that supports children with special needs and their families. Over the past few years, Radiomarathon has provided a large range of equipment to support a number of families identified by Disability SA.

Along with Disability SA, each year about 30 organisations receive funds from Radiomarathon in Australia, which helps them to continue caring for hundreds of kids.

Radiomarathon Victoria

The Radiomarathon Victoria Raffle was concluded on the 1st of December 2008, as Radiomarathon Trustee Mrs Elli Papasavas conducted the raffle draw at Laiki Bank’s Spring Street branch in Melbourne. “I am very delighted to announce the winning tickets of Radiomarathon Victorian Raffle. Congratulations to all the winners”, said Mrs Papasavas. “On behalf of the Radiomarathon Trust, I would also like to thank the businesses and individuals who have donated items for raffle prizes and purchased tickets. Thanks to your generosity Radiomarathon continues to be a successful charity making a real difference to the lives of kids with special needs ” she added.

Melbourne’s Greek community also generously contributed to the worthy cause of Radiomarathon at the annual radio appeal, raising an incredible $26,000 to assist children with mental and physical disabilities. This fantastic result was achieved with the determination and dedication of Laiki Bank staff in Melbourne and 3XY radio team.

Radiomarathon community in Melbourne continued their support for children with special needs, at a stylish Cocktail event at Grand Hyatt in Melbourne, organised by Laiki Bank. The guests enthusiastically participated in a raffle draw to win a unique Black Slip Terracotta Vase from the Hellenistic Period dating back to the 3rd Century BC.

Mr Athanasiou thanked the guests and highlighted the importance of supporting Radiomarathon. “Our ongoing success with Radiomarathon reflects the closeness we enjoy with our customers. Thanks to your support, Radiomarathon continues to assist kids with special needs.”