It’s hard to believe 2020 could include more destruction than it already has—but the devastation caused by a monumental blast in Beirut on Tuesday 4 August has left beautiful Lebanon reeling, with a death toll of almost 180 and an estimated 6,000 people injured. There are ways you can help disaster relief from afar—and a Sydney-created social media silent auction called “Lebathon” is just one.
The auction initiative is offering you the chance to bid on experiences, products and services generously donated by an enormous range of Australian businesses. Created by Example PR, Sydney Lebanese institution El Phoenician, Hotel Palisade's Natalie Ghosn and other members of the Lebanese-Australian community, Lebathon is an opportunity to show your support and score something seriously epic while you’re at it.
Up for grabs are heaps of Sydney dining experiences (which you can pin for later if you're not currently living in NSW) as well as a whole lot of donations from small businesses all over the country.
We've got our eyes on a private dining experience at Cubby's Kitchen, a two-night staycation at Hotel Palisade, a $200 voucher for Marys, a shop til you drop boutique experience from celebrity fashion designer Lillian Kallouf, a wash, cut and blow-dry from leading hair artist Natalie Anne, and even a unique private home experience from the boys over at Knafeh Bakery.
There's legal advice, social media services, a couples photoshoot and an astrology fundamentals course available to bid on—it’s a major mixed bag of generously donated items that’s ultimately a heart-warming show of love for Lebanon.
All funds raised from the auction will be donated to Impact Lebanon, which is aiming to raise $13m for disaster relief. Funds will go to carefully selected registered NGOs that have passed a series of audits tests and are assured to be apolitical.
"Our heritage has always been a source of great inspiration and pride," said Andy El-Bayeh, co-founder of Example. "We wanted to come together and give back as a united Australian-Lebanese community."
There are currently 45 items up for bidding (with more being added every day), and bidding ends at August 28 6.00 pm AEST. If you'd like to donate a product or service, get in contact here. You can also donate directly at Lebathon's Go Fund Me here.
For other ideas on how you can support—we recommend the Lebanese Red Cross and Lebanese Food Bank.
Image credit: Hotel Palisade