Under the continued creative direction of Valentine, Starry Night marked a defining evolution in the JW Foundation’s identity. Following the success of 2024’s Beyond the Veil, this year’s gala embodied a more cinematic and emotional narrative — exploring hope, resilience, and the infinite potential of the human spirit.

Conceived and named by Valentine, Starry Night drew its inspiration from constellations and the wonder of the cosmos — a journey through light, imagination, and possibility. The theme followed the story of a young boy, a dreamer gazing into the stars, envisioning what he might one day become. It was a tale of hope — of finding direction in darkness, of dreaming beyond circumstance — and it echoed the Foundation’s mission to illuminate pathways for children and families in need.

Guests entered through a candlelit forecourt before being transported into a celestial dining hall transformed by deep midnight drapery, mirrored surfaces, and soft constellations cast across the room. Every visual cue — the reflective materials, the flowing silks, the shimmer of glass and gold — mirrored the vastness of the universe, creating a sense of wonder and intimacy within the NGV’s monumental space.

For the first time ever, Omnia and Maha Restaurant united for a one-night-only menu executed by Atlantic Group, blending modern Mediterranean and Middle Eastern artistry. The evening concluded with an exquisite Dessert by Lisa, crafted to reflect the stars themselves — delicate, luminous, and dreamlike.

Immersive performances and couture entertainment by Khayaly & Ko carried guests through the emotional arc of the night, connecting narrative and spectacle in equal measure. A curated art auction featuring Australian artists added another dimension of giving, transforming creativity into meaningful change.

Votre Group oversaw the entire production — from creative direction, partnerships, and event design to media, storytelling, and full-scale event management — in collaboration with Papermill Agency. Every sensory detail was considered and orchestrated to achieve cohesion between message, emotion, and execution.

Starry Night was presented in partnership with Vogue Australia and supported by Penfolds, Maha, Omnia, Atlantic Group, Mercedes-Benz, Calibre, The Ritz-Carlton, and Mobilia. Together, these partners helped transform the NGV into a constellation of light, generosity, and imagination — reaffirming the JW Foundation’s position as a modern force in Australia’s philanthropic landscape.

The event not only illuminated the night sky but also the power of human connection — proving that when vision, creativity, and compassion align, extraordinary things are born.

Media by ONE HOUSE & Eugene Canty

Partners & Supporters

Vogue Australia • Penfolds • Maha • Omnia • Atlantic Group • Mercedes-Benz • Calibre • The Ritz-Carlton • Mobilia

In Support Of

Toybox Australia benefitting Duchenne Australia