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A Celebration Where Stories Inspired Hope – The Book Character High Tea


There are moments when imagination, generosity and purpose converge so seamlessly that an afternoon becomes something altogether extraordinary. The Book Character High Tea 2026 was one of those rare occasions.

Held within the historic surrounds of Old Parliament House, the pages of beloved books came vividly to life as guests arrived in imaginative literary costume, united by a shared love of storytelling and a profound commitment to supporting children diagnosed with brain cancer.

The afternoon was filled with warmth, laughter and connection, reflecting the extraordinary spirit of the community gathered in support of Dainere’s Rainbow.

Together, an incredible $5,295.80 was raised.

Every dollar will support vital childhood brain cancer research and continue Dainere’s vision of creating a brighter future for children and families facing this devastating disease.

Guiding the afternoon was our Master of Ceremonies and Dainere’s Rainbow Ambassador, Michael Bower, whose warmth and professionalism created an uplifting and engaging atmosphere throughout the event.

A defining highlight of the afternoon was the extraordinary entertainment presented by Kirsty and her exceptional team of young performers from Budding Entertainment. Under the creative direction of Kirsty Budding, the ensemble presented four original theatrical skits inspired by cherished literary classics: Alice in Wonderland, Harry Potter, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and The Wizard of Oz. Each piece was reimagined with creativity, sophistication and theatrical flair, transforming familiar stories into dynamic, original performances. The young performers brought each production to life with remarkable confidence, expressive storytelling and a natural command of the stage, captivating guests from beginning to end. Their performances radiated joy, imagination and professionalism, leaving a lasting impression and standing as one of the most celebrated highlights of the afternoon.

Adding elegance to the afternoon was DJ “Hot Keys” Alex Carder, whose beautiful piano performances created a refined and welcoming atmosphere. Guests were also delighted by his ability to take musical requests and perform them flawlessly by ear in return for donations to Dainere’s Rainbow, a generous and memorable contribution that became one of the highlights of the day.

Guests were warmly welcomed by Deirdre Rose of Graceful Rose Parties, who appeared as Scarlett O’Hara, adding theatrical charm to the occasion and delighting guests with thoughtful surprises throughout the afternoon.

Our sincere thanks go to Corinne Read of Red Fox Photography, who captured the spirit, joy and elegance of the event with remarkable artistry. Photographs will be shared once available.

We also extend our appreciation to Juliet, Belle and the Functions and Catering Team at Old Parliament House, whose professionalism ensured the afternoon unfolded seamlessly.

Special acknowledgement is given to the talented Chef, whose themed desserts were a true highlight. The dessert created in honour of Dainere was particularly meaningful, reflecting her imagination, spirit and enduring legacy with exceptional artistry.

We are deeply grateful to our community partners and supporters:

Ampol Mitchell

Cockington Green Gardens

Fantastic Furniture Gungahlin

Gourmet By Design 

Jacinta Froud – Author

Pulp Book Café

Red Fox Photography

Along with all those who generously donated silent auction items, raffle prizes and lucky door gifts. Your contributions helped transform a beautiful gathering into meaningful impact.

Most importantly, with immense, humble and heartfelt gratiude to every guest who attended. Your generosity, enthusiasm and spirit created an atmosphere of genuine connection and purpose. Together, you helped turn an afternoon into something far greater than an event.

Each person who attended became part of something far greater than a celebration.

Together, we honoured Dainere’s legacy.

Together, we strengthened hope.

Together, we wrote another chapter for children impacted by brain cancer.

We look forward to sharing event photographs in the coming weeks.

Save the Date Sunday, 19 June 2027 – Keep Watching In Great Anticipation For An Announcement Soon.

We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land where we meet and work, the Ngunnawal people, and the many other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples from across Australia who have now made Canberra their home. We celebrate and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of the ACT and region.

Dainere's Rainbow is a not for profit organisation - 100% of all funds raised or donated go to childhood brain cancer research at Sydney Children's Hospital
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Sydney Children's Hospital Foundation are proud to display the new Registered Charity Tick from the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC), which aims to gives reassurance to the public that the charities they support are transparent and accountable. We rely on your donations and volunteering to ensure we can continue our vital work, so we want you to know your support is making a difference. Where you see the logo, it means the charity is registered with the ACNC so the public can easily find out what they do, who their beneficiaries are, how they are governed and how they manage their finances.