Olympic gold medallist Brooke Hanson will headline Meli’s Foster a Future Breakfast when the much-loved event returns to GMHBA Stadium on Thursday 17 September.
Held during Foster Care Week (13-19 September), the annual breakfast shines a spotlight on the vital role foster carers play in supporting vulnerable children and young people across the region.
Hanson, a world champion swimmer who grew up watching her parents provide foster care to children in need, will share a powerful and deeply personal perspective shaped by her upbringing.
“I’m incredibly excited to be coming to Geelong to be part of Meli’s Foster a Future Breakfast,” Hanson said.
“Foster care is something very close to my heart. I grew up watching my parents open our home to children and families in crisis, and it’s shaped who I am today.
“I’ve seen firsthand the difference that a safe, caring environment can make, especially for children coming from really challenging situations. Foster carers don’t just provide a roof over someone’s head – they offer hope, safety and a sense that someone truly cares.
“I’m honoured to be part of an event that celebrates and supports such incredible work.”
One of Australia’s most accomplished swimmers, Hanson represented her country at more than 25 major international championships. Her career reached its pinnacle at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games, where she fulfilled a lifelong dream by winning Olympic gold and silver medals.
Today, Hanson is a respected speaker, wellbeing advocate, media presenter, author and mother of four. Drawing on her experiences of success, adversity and resilience, she inspires audiences to embrace challenges and live with purpose.
Popular broadcaster Myf Warhurst will return as MC for this year’s event, with entertainment from Australian Idol finalist Kim Cooper.
Attendees will also hear an informative panel discussion featuring a past care leaver, a current Foster Carer and a member of the Meli Care Services team.
Meli CEO Robyn Hayles said the event was an opportunity to recognise the remarkable contribution foster carers make every day.
“Foster carers make a life-changing difference for children and young people at some of the most critical moments in their lives,” Ms Hayles said.
“They provide safety, care and stability when it is needed most. This event is both a celebration of their commitment and an opportunity for the wider community to support the future of foster care in our region.”
Now in its fourth year, the breakfast is the flagship event of Meli’s Foster a Future Appeal, raising vital funds to support foster carers and children and young people in care.
Tickets are now available, with individuals and tables of 10 able to be purchased via this link: https://events.humanitix.com/meli-foster-a-future-breakfast-2026
Event details below:
When: Thursday 17 September 2026
Time: 6.45am for 7am start, concluding at 8.45am
Venue: GMHBA Stadium, President’s Room
Keynote Speaker: Swimming champion Brooke Hanson
MC: Media personality Myf Warhurst
Photo: Olympic swimming champion Brooke Hanson will headline Meli’s Foster a Future Breakfast.
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