In June, we watched the Tour de Cure Snow Ball in Sydney turn generosity into real-world impact, raising an extraordinary $1.62 million for cancer research. Inspired by that momentum—and proud that Gabby pledged on FMF’s behalf—we’re now channelling our energy into Melbourne. The Tour de Cure Melbourne Gala is set for February 2026, and the Frank Montagnese Foundation is rolling up its sleeves to help make it a night that changes lives.
What we’re doing right now
We’re working closely with Tour de Cure’s gala team to support the big pieces that make a fundraising night sing—without losing the magic that gets people talking (and giving).
- Partner & sponsor outreach: We’re engaging businesses that can underwrite key elements of the event or provide in-kind services—think AV, staging, décor, entertainment, printing, hospitality and logistics. Smart partnerships keep costs down so more dollars reach research.
- Raffle and auction sourcing: Great prizes and experiences are the heartbeat of a gala. We’re curating a mix of premium getaways, money-can’t-buy experiences and crowd-pleasers that drive bids and pledges.
- Volunteer recruitment and coordination: From pledge desks to guest support, skilled volunteers are essential. We’re mapping roles, rostering, and briefing to ensure the night runs like clockwork.
- Communications & storytelling: We’re helping shape the narrative—before, during and after the gala—so supporters see exactly how their generosity accelerates breakthroughs, including projects tackling devastating cancers like DIPG.
Why it matters
Cancer doesn’t wait. Every table sold, every prize donated, every volunteer shift covered helps Tour de Cure fund research, support and prevention programs that move the needle now—not years from now. Our role is simple: connect good people with a great cause, remove friction, and make it easy to say “yes”.
How you (or your business) can get involved
If you’ve been looking for a meaningful way to contribute, this is it.
- Volunteer on the night: Help run pledge moments, guest support, ticketing and more.
- Donate a prize or experience: Travel, dining, sport, arts, wellness, exclusive access—if it’s memorable, it can raise serious money.
- Sponsor a service or underwrite a cost: AV, lighting, staging, entertainment, printing, floristry, photography, transport—your support multiplies impact.
- Corporate involvement: Host a table, offer a staff volunteer crew, or explore a brand partnership aligned to Tour de Cure’s mission.
Timeline at a glance
- Now – December 2025: Partner conversations, prize commitments, volunteer EOI.
- January 2026: Final rosters, run-sheet and briefing.
- February 2026: Gala night in Melbourne—let’s make it unforgettable and wildly effective.
If you’re keen to help – as a volunteer, prize donor or sponsor – reach out to us and we’ll connect you directly with the Tour de Cure team and the right workstream. You can also send us a DM and we’ll jump on a call.
Together, we’ll turn Melbourne’s generosity into research breakthroughs and better outcomes for families facing cancer.
