UPDATE: Businessman and climate philanthropist Simon Holmes a Court has just secured a mystery flight with Opposition Leader Sussan Ley for a staggering $15,000 at the annual Mid Winter Ball charity auction in Canberra. This unexpected bid comes as the climate advocate continues to influence Australian politics, having previously funded teal independents who successfully ousted several Liberal MPs.
The high-stakes auction took place earlier today, with Holmes a Court winning a two-person flight on Ley’s four-seater Cessna-182 light aircraft, departing from either Albury or Canberra. The package also features a classic Australian pub lunch and optional shearing lessons. Joining them on this exclusive trip will be Katya Zheluk, an 18-year-old future climate scientist and outreach member of Climate 200.
Holmes a Court’s bid is a personal investment and not funded by Climate 200, which has seen its candidates defeat prominent Liberal MPs in the last federal election. This includes Kate Chaney in Curtin and Monique Ryan in ex-treasurer Josh Frydenberg‘s seat of Kooyong. The group is expected to engage in essential discussions about climate change, integrity, and equality, addressing issues that affect young Australians today.
The auction’s atmosphere was electric, with politicians across the spectrum stepping up to support various causes. While Holmes a Court’s bid topped the charts, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese offered a doubles tennis tournament at The Lodge, which sold for $13,232. Other notable bids included a dinner for four hosted by Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Finance Minister Katy Gallagher, fetching $13,051, and a dinner with independent ACT senator David Pocock, which went for $3,000.
The auction raised an impressive total of $74,881, showcasing the spirit of generosity among attendees. However, the surprise winning bid of $18,000 for two return business-class tickets to either London or Los Angeles sponsored by Qantas also drew attention, highlighting the competitive nature of charity auctions.
As the mystery flight approaches, Holmes a Court, Ley, and Zheluk prepare for what promises to be a significant dialogue on climate issues, emphasizing the importance of youth voices in shaping Australia’s future. This event not only serves as a unique opportunity for personal interaction but also represents the evolving landscape of Australian politics, where philanthropy and environmental activism intertwine.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story and the impact of this unusual flight on ongoing climate discussions in Australia.
