Alma Doepel gala

Alma Doepel gala

By Sarah Bartlett

Alma Doepel is holding its fourth annual Voyage of a Lifetime fundraising luncheon on August 16.

The annual event supports the ongoing restoration of the Alma Doepel, in an effort to see the much-anticipated return of the three-masted topsail schooner. Last year’s luncheon raised for than $40,000 for the restoration project and it is hoped even more can be raised to help get the Alma back in the water by 2020.

The luncheon will again be hosted by Channel 9 News presenter Peter Hitchener and will also include keynote speaker vice admiral Tim Barrett AO. Vice admiral Barrett is a retired senior officer in the Royal Australian Navy and commander of the Australian Fleet.

The Alma Doepel is berthed at No 2 Victoria Dock and is currently undergoing restoration so that she can resume her duties as a sail-training vessel. The gala luncheon provides an opportunity to raise funds towards the restoration, as well as a chance for like-minded individuals who support the project to mingle. Those at the event will be able to learn about the progress of the project as well as directly hear about personal experiences of individuals who have previously taken part in the Alma’s youth sail training program.

There will be an auction of rare and unique experiences including a Tug Boat Experience, Port Phillip Sea Pilot Experience, Young Endeavour Experience, Dock Tour and Crane Experience, Behind the Scenes Channel 9 News Experience and a Race Experience on 1987 America’s Cup yacht Kookaburra.

Voyage of a Lifetime fundraising luncheon will be held on Friday August 16 from 12 to 2:30pm at the Hotel Windsor. Booking Information is available at almadoepel.com.au/gala-luncheon/

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