The spirit of sisterhood, community, and compassion was on full display as members and friends of the Saree Club helped raise more than $3,500 in support of cancer research, prevention, and support services. The Saree Club hosted Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea for the fifth time. Our morning tea always hosted by a member and this year our hostess was Jigna Shah. A home is always seen as a safe space, exuding a warmth that makes the flow of difficult conversations easy.
More than just a fundraiser, the event became a powerful platform for connection, awareness and meaningful conversations about health and wellbeing. Women from diverse backgrounds came together, united by a shared commitment to making a difference while celebrating culture, friendship, and the enduring strength of community.
A unique highlight of this year’s gathering was a homemade lunch box exchange, which brought an added layer of creativity and cultural storytelling to the event. Participants prepared thoughtfully curated lunch boxes that reflected family traditions, regional flavours and personal memories. The concept transformed a simple meal into a celebration of heritage and community, sparking conversations and connections around every table.
Adding to the excitement was the auction of two beautiful sarees, each carrying its own story and significance. Members enthusiastically bid for the garments, recognising that they represented more than fabric and craftsmanship-they symbolised memories, milestones, and the rich cultural tapestry that binds the community together. Thank you Charu Kotera and Sonali Saxena for your generous bids. A specially curated tea hamper was also auctioned, contributing to the fundraising efforts and the bid was won by Aruna Tirunagari.
Throughout the morning, attendees reflected on the importance of preventive healthcare and early detection. Open and honest discussions highlighted the need for women to prioritise their own wellbeing, listen to the signals their bodies provide, and seek medical advice when something feels amiss. The gathering also served as a timely reminder of the importance of regular mammograms, cervical screening, and bowel cancer screening. Dipika Gandhi curated quotes from celebrities who had gone through the journey, highlighted the fact that cancer does not discriminate. Each attendee read out a quote. The whole exercise was not just powerful but deeply thought- provoking too.
Importantly, the conversations also extended beyond women’s health. Participants emphasised the need to encourage the men in their families and communities to undertake regular health checks and to be proactive in managing their physical wellbeing. The message was clear: prevention, awareness, and early intervention save lives.
One of the most moving moments of the morning came through the sharing of Nikhil’s story. Through the heartfelt reflections of his mother, Nivedita Autar, attendees learned about a remarkable young man whose courage, resilience, and positive outlook left a lasting impression on all who knew him. While cancer ultimately claimed his life, his legacy continues to inspire others to live with purpose, gratitude, and determination.
Nikhil’s journey served as a poignant reminder of why events such as Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea remain so important. Behind every fundraising effort are real people, real families and real stories of courage, loss, hope and perseverance. His story touched many hearts in the room and reinforced the significance of supporting cancer research and patient care.
The morning also highlighted the unique role community organisations play in fostering connection and creating spaces where difficult conversations can take place. By sharing experiences, offering support and raising awareness, attendees demonstrated the power of collective action and the strength that emerges when people come together for a common cause.
As the afternoon concluded, there was a shared sense that each one of us had achieved far more than being part of the fundraising venture. It had strengthened friendships further, honoured personal journeys, encouraged important health conversations and inspired attendees to continue supporting one another beyond the event itself.
In raising over $3,500, the Saree Club and her supporters have made a tangible contribution to the fight against cancer. Equally important, they have helped create greater awareness, fostered meaningful dialogue and reminded everyone present that community, compassion, and connection remain among the most powerful tools we have in facing life’s challenges.
-Poornima Menon
