AFFIRM is The Australian Foundation for Mental Health Research and its gourmet event, whether lunch or dinner, is a highlight of local fundraising for the foundation.

The venues have been such fun with a meandering long table style for the original “Gourmet in the Botanical Gardens”, a summer lunch on the walkways at the back of Old Parliament House, a special event at Kiribilli House and, more recently, magnificent Gandel Hall at the National Gallery of Australia, a venue that suits the long table style perfectly.

As deputy chair of the Affirm board, Virginia Hansen, is a masterful manager of a dinner that keeps it simple but stylish, encourages participation in the auctions and offers and entertains guests with this year the gorgeous voice of Grace Knight, former lead singer of the Eurogliders, jazzing up some classic favourites.

One of the most successful fundraisers is the lucky envelope prize collection of goods and services where for $50 or $100 you will be assured of a smart black envelope with a value-for-money prize.

Affirm is a foundation where research into mental health issues is making a difference with innovation particularly in e-health applications.