As attendance and donations climb, organisers are handing greater control of Sydney’s Lunar New Year fundraiser to younger business figures shaping its next phase.
Sydney’s Lunar New Year Celebration fundraiser for the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation (SCHF) will return to Crown Sydney on February 28, with organisers aiming to build on rapid fundraising growth that has seen the event expand from a six-figure charity dinner into a multi-million-dollar fixture.
The gala raised $900,000 in 2023 and $2.15 million in 2025. This year, chair Monika Tu OAM and the organising committee are targeting a new record, with proceeds supporting Kids’ Research across the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network.
At the centre of this year’s fundraising effort is a luxury Melbourne apartment valued at approximately $750,000, donated by presenting partner DCF Property Group and set to be auctioned on the night. Organisers confirmed $300,000 from the sale will go directly to SCHF.
The one-bedroom, one-bathroom residence forms part of the First Light development on St Kilda Boulevard. Spanning about 58 square metres including an eight-square-metre balcony, the apartment sits near Albert Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Domain precinct, alongside the future ANZAC Station transport hub.
The project includes internationally recognised collaborators Leo Terrando and Boffi, with design connected to the Philippe Starck-founded YOO studio. Hospitality partners Jason Lau and Josef Murray are also involved in the broader development. Residents will have access to shared amenities including wellness facilities, concierge services and lifestyle programming.
DCF Property Group founder and CEO Calvin Huang said the contribution reflects a growing link between property development and philanthropic fundraising.
“I’m proud to be bringing DCF and First Light to the SCHF Lunar New Year Celebration this Saturday. I know the generosity shown on the night will be inspiring. It will help create a long-lasting impact on children and families who receive groundbreaking clinical care.”
“The contribution from DCF and First Light is our way of turning property development into something that truly helps change young lives and create a legacy that goes far beyond the walls of any DCF building.”
Alongside the fundraising expansion, organisers have introduced a Next-Gen Committee for 2026, bringing younger business and community leaders into planning and donor engagement roles as the event grows.
“One of the most meaningful parts of this year’s celebration has been founding our Next-Gen Committee. They bring fresh energy, new ideas and a deep sense of responsibility to the entire process. For me, it’s not just about hosting an event, it’s about building a legacy. When young leaders feel personally connected to a cause, that’s when real, lasting impact happens,” Tu said.
Around 300 guests from business, property and philanthropy are expected to attend the dinner. Funds raised support paediatric research programs focused on improving diagnosis and treatment pathways for children facing serious illness and injury. According to SCHF, research outcomes can take up to 17 years to reach clinical practice, making philanthropic funding a key source of early-stage support.
Tu said the event continues to draw participation across cultural and business communities connected through Lunar New Year celebrations.
“The Lunar New Year Celebration is a beautiful example of East and West coming together with shared purpose. It’s more than a cultural moment, it’s a reminder that generosity has no borders. When different communities unite behind something bigger than themselves, the impact multiplies. That spirit of togetherness is what makes this event so powerful year after year.”
Major partners supporting the 2026 event include Chopard and ABC Bullion. The evening coincides with the Year of the Horse, with organisers expecting attendance levels similar to last year’s record event.
Kristina Keneally, CEO of Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation, said philanthropic funding continues to play a central role in advancing medical research.
“The reality is that too many children face illness and injury at a time when they should simply be growing up. Philanthropy drives progress by bringing communities together to fund the research that shortens the journey from discovery to care and gives families hope when they need it most.”
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