Business Networking International Awards Night
On Saturday the 13th of November, BNI ( Business Networking International ) held its Inaugural Awards Presentation Night. The host for the night was MC Matthew Guy ( Shadow Minister for Planning )
The aim was to recognise leaders in networking throughout the local areas and raise money for two local Charities (Heidelcare and Diamond Valley Foodshare ).
Steven and Sara Briffa took on the responsibility of organising the night and selected a team of seven other networkers to assist. Our aim was to have a night that promoted BNI and supported the needy within our community. We approached a number of sponsors in the immediate area and, are proud to say that, we partnered the night with the Hurstbridge, Diamond Creek and Eltham Community Branches of Bendigo Bank, the Banyule and Nillumbik Weekly, the Australian Liberal Party and BNI. The event also coincided with the 25 Anniversary of BNI this year.
The night was a great success with over 140 people attending including the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Banyule and other Councillors. The entertainment was a real highlight with 3 different acts throughout the night. There was also a silent auction to help raise money for the two local Charities. During the evening BNI awards were presented in different categories.
Steven Briffa won the Networker of the year throughout the local area and acknowledged the sponsors and Charities in his speech. The amount of $ 11,000 was raised for Heidecare and Diamond Valley Foodshare. Both Charities were presented with large mock up cheques on the night and will receive the funds early this week.
This event proved a great success and will only get bigger next year. Three out of the four sponsors have already expressed interest in sponsoring the awards next year, stating that they were delighted with the event which far exceeded their expectations.