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Over 600 guests descended on The Lemnos by Clarence House on Friday 23 May 2025 as Oz Arab Media staged its Third Annual Gala Dinner, an evening that wove together diplomacy, business success and cultural pride in a single vibrant tapestry.
From the first notes of Alive 90.5 FM’s welcome set and canapés, the night promised elegance. Master of Ceremonies Carol Ferrone opened proceedings with an Acknowledgement of Country and the Australian National Anthem before welcoming a roll-call of dignitaries spanning every level of government and diplomacy.
Diplomatic guests included His Excellency Mr Milad Raad, Ambassador of Lebanon and Dean of the Council of Arab Ambassadors, alongside Ambassador Wassane Zailache from Morocco, Charge D’Affaires Abdellatif from Sudan and Diplomats from Saudi Arabia. Federally, the Hon. Tony Burke MP addressed attendees, while state politics was represented by both the Hon. Mark Speakman MP, NSW Opposition Leader, and the Hon. Sophie Cotsis MP, who stepped in for the Hon. Jihad Dib MP after his last-minute apology, because he was busy dealing with the flooding problem that was sweeping the state, and delivered the Premier’s message.
In a powerful display of communal solidarity, the gala attracted representatives from every major Lebanese political movement: the Free Patriotic Movement, Amal Movement, Future Movement, Kataeb Party, AL Ahrar Party Marada Movement, Independence Movement ,Left Democratic Movement and the Syrian Social Nationalist Party, alongside independents and civil-society groups including but not limited to Maronite Catholic Society and Druze Charitable Association, World Lebanese Cultural Union-ALCU, El Minieh Association, Al Mina Association, Bhannin Association, Zgharta Association, Akkar Association, Tripoli Association, Beirut Association, Rmeich Association, Zahle Association, Karm-Sadde Association, Jebbet Bsharri Association , North Lebanon Association, etc . Their collective presence underscored the event’s capacity to transcend political divides when community and heritage take center stage.
In his keynote address, retired Lebanese Army Major and General Manager of Oz Arab Media, Remy Wehbe, captivated the audience with a heartfelt reflection on the organization’s remarkable journey. He spoke with pride about how Oz Arab Media, once a modest platform, has rapidly grown into a leading multicultural media powerhouse in Australia—producing bilingual news content, hosting high-profile events, and becoming a trusted voice for Arab-Australian communities nationwide. Remy highlighted the team’s unwavering commitment to professionalism, community service, and cultural representation, crediting this dedication for the organization’s increasing influence and respect across both mainstream and ethnic media landscapes. His speech was a stirring reminder of how passion, purpose, and perseverance can turn a vision into a national institution.
Throughout the evening, on-stage interviews explored the community impact of leading figures such as philanthropist Nissy Mattar, activist Sophia Sarkis, facilities executive Michael Azzi, and Hills Shire councilor Immanuel Selvaraj, as well as Mohamed Hage OAM, Chairman of the Australian Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
A centerpiece of the night was the AIM Business Awards 2025. Media Manager of Oz Arab Media and AIM Association President Dr Charbel Tadros outlined AIM’s multicultural initiatives before presenting community stalwart Wally Mehanna with an AIM Hero Award. Major sponsor CEOs David Amaneddine (AAA City Removalist), Robert Sarkis (RJS Aluminum) and Maged Hanna (Aldawli Printing Australia) announced winners across business, non-profit and entrepreneurial categories, cheered on by a roomful of peers.
The evening reached a celebratory peak with the announcement of the AIM Business Awards 2025 winners, recognizing outstanding achievement across three key categories. ATKA Insurance Brokers was honored in the Business category for its innovation, client-centered approach, and rapid rise as a trusted name in the insurance sector. In the Non-Profit category, Camp Quality was recognized for its extraordinary efforts in supporting children and families facing cancer, delivering hope and joy through its holistic programs. The Entrepreneur award was presented to Marina Semaan, widely known as JellyBeeNa the Clown, whose vibrant performances and unwavering commitment to children’s entertainment have made her a beloved figure in the community. Through her business, JellyBeeNa the Clown, Marina has brought joy to countless events, specializing in face painting, games, and interactive fun for children, while also supporting various charitable causes. Each winner was invited to the stage by leaders of the event’s major sponsor companies, adding a personal touch to a moment that celebrated excellence, impact, and the power of community-driven ambition.
Raffles and a silent auction—raising funds for the Australian Lebanese Medical Association (ALMA) to purchase much-needed medical equipment for struggling hospitals in Lebanon—kept the philanthropic heartbeat of the evening alive. Lions Club members moved gracefully among the guests, offering raffle tickets and encouraging contributions, while auction items attracted enthusiastic bidding from generous attendees. The fundraising efforts reflected the community’s deep sense of solidarity with Lebanon, especially during its ongoing healthcare crisis. This spirit of giving was beautifully complemented by a soulful performance from rising Australian-Lebanese singer-songwriter Antoun, whose emotive vocals and heartfelt lyrics captivated the audience. Blending pop and R&B influences with raw honesty, Antoun’s musical interlude provided a reflective pause in the evening—reminding guests of the deeper purpose behind the night’s glamour: to uplift, support, and give back.
Backed by principal sponsors AAA City Removalist, RJS Aluminum and Aldawli Printing Australia, plus a host of gold, silver and bronze partners, the gala confirmed Oz Arab Media’s growing stature as a bridge between cultures, sectors and generations. As guests departed, one message resonated above all: when community voices unite, multicultural Australia shines at its brightest.
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