Support Act are proud to announce that renowned all girl group, and heroines of the blockbuster movie, The Sapphires, will be presented with Support Act’s annual charity award in recognition of their invaluable work in the Indigenous community on at the Music in the House luncheon on Friday, 11 October, 2013, at NSW Parliament House.

The focus of Music In The House is to honour members of the music industry who, by their tireless efforts and charitable works, have made a difference and enriched the fabric of the broader Australian community. Previous recipients of the award have been Jimmy Barnes, Glenn Shorrock, Don Spencer, Richard Clapton, John Paul Young, Russell Morris and John Butler.

Support Act is also thrilled to confirm that Jessica Mauboy will be performing at this event in what will surely be a spellbinding and intimate performance in honour of the original members of The Sapphires, who will also be attending the luncheon.

The Sapphires feature film was inspired by a true story of these four extraordinary Aboriginal women, sisters Laurel Robinson, Lois Peeler and their cousins Beverley Briggs and Dr. Naomi Mayers. Yorta Yorta women born along the Murray River, they were part of an extended family of brothers and sisters who regularly sang together during the 1960’s and 70’s. Sisters Laurel and Lois toured Vietnam in the late 1960’s singing to the American troops which was an extraordinary achievement for two young Aboriginal women.

Life after The Sapphires has been an even richer experience for these extraordinary family members – Dr. Naomi Mayers has held the office of Chief Executive Officer of the Aboriginal Medical Service for 30 years with Beverly Briggs and Laurel Robinson tirelessly working by her side striving to improve the health of the Aboriginal community (Naomi received an Order of Australia Medal in 1984). Following a stint as Australia’s first Aboriginal model, Lois Peeler went on to become the Executive Director of Worawa Aboriginal College, a secondary education facility for young Aboriginal Women.  Lois is also the former head of Aboriginal Tourism Australia.

As a performer, Jessica Mauboy continues to mesmerise audiences with her acting and singing and has established herself as one of Australia’s biggest female pop stars. Jessica played the role of “Julie” in The Sapphires movie which earned her an ACCTA Award for Best Supporting Actress and an AFCA Award for the same category. Jess also represents a key role model to the indigenous community for Australia as seen in her involvements across their organizations that include mentoring, performing and education.

Jessica said today “I’m so happy to see The Sapphires being recognised by Support Act for all that they’ve done over years to support the indigenous community.  They are true role models for our community and I can’t wait to see them at the lunch and congratulate them in person”

Support Act is Australia’s unique music charity supporting music professionals in crisis.  This year’s Music in the House will be bigger and better than ever before: come along to support our crucial work and hear about the changes which are taking place in our unique charity, over a very special lunch place in one of Sydney’s most prestigious venues.

Joanna Cave, CEO of Support Act said “Music in the House is always special but this year promises to be extraordinary: if you are in the audience, expect to be moved by Jessica Mauboy’s performance; impressed by learning what The Sapphires did next and inspired by the difference Support Act is making to peoples’ lives”

 Bookings can be made online by visiting www.trybooking.com/59552 or download the booking form from www.supportact.com/events .  Enquires can also be made via admin@supportact.com.au.

Tickets must be paid for in advance and can be booked until 5.00pm on Thursday, 3 October. Please note tickets will not be available on the day.

Tickets cost $165.00 per person / $1,500.00 per table of 10 (incl. GST) and includes a three course meal, drinks and a special performance by Jessica Mauboy.

By buying a ticket you are helping music professionals in crisis.