On Saturday 25 July, LOT.100 came alive for the 2026 Collab for a Cause Christmas in July dinner, a night of great food, generosity and genuine community spirit, all in support of the Women’s & Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Guests embraced the festive 90s theme with enthusiasm, bringing the energy from the very first moment. Guided by MC Tom Rehn from 9News and co-host Mandy Hall, the night flowed seamlessly, from pre-dinner drinks and canapés to live entertainment, an exceptional five-course tasting menu, and a live auction and wine wall that kept the generosity flowing all evening. 

Five celebrated chefs joined LOT.100’s own Chef and General Manager, Shannon Fleming, and Head Chef, Jack Winfield to bring the menu to life:

  • Mark Best — Executive Chef, Infinity by Mark Best, Sydney Tower
  • Quentin Whittle — Chef/Owner of Herringbone, Trak & Crafers Pizza Bar
  • Laura Sharrad — Author, Food Creator, Owner of Nido & Fugazzi
  • Max Sharrad — Chef/Owner of Nido & Fugazzi
  • Jimmy Toone — Chef/Owner of Fall From Grace

Together, they created a dining experience guests won’t soon forget in service of something far greater than a great meal. 

L-R: Mark Best, Quentin Whittle, Laura Sharrad, Max Sharrad, Jimmy Toone, and Jack Winfield.

The inspiration behind the event

Collab for a Cause has called LOT.100 home since 2019, but beyond the fundraising and community spirit, each event is driven by a deeply personal story.

For founder Shannon Fleming, the cause is closely tied to her family’s experience with the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital.

“Our twins were born premature in August of 2018 and spent nearly 100 days in NICU,” Shannon shared. “Tragically, one of our daughters passed away 28 days following heart surgery. Whilst we experienced the worst loss possible, we also received amazing care from the staff and doctors of the NICU and WCH. It’s a place that holds so many memories, not just for our family, but for many others.”

That gratitude has become the driving force behind Collab for a Cause. On Saturday night, Shannon’s commitment, along with the generosity of the LOT.100 community, was felt throughout the room, as guests came together to support families navigating their own hospital journeys.

Shannon and Nicole Flemming pictured with event co-host, Mandy Hall.

Celebrating an extraordinary community

Together, we raised almost $70,000 for the babies, children and families who rely on the Women’s and Children’s Hospital.

Every dollar raised will help fund vital care, groundbreaking research and wellbeing programs, ensuring support is available when it matters most.

To our guest chefs, sponsors, local producers, volunteers and every guest who attended, gave generously and championed this cause, thank you. Your support has made this incredible result possible.

What began as a vision has grown into something far greater: a community united by kindness, collaboration and a shared belief that together, we can change lives. 

This is what true collaboration and community looks like.