Inside the society summit! Who’s Who of the eastern suburbs doll up for posh ladies’ lunch with a ‘puzzling’ dress code you’ll never guess from the photos… as one surly arrival stands out like a sore thumb

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On Thursday, some of the prominent women from Sydney’s eastern suburbs gathered together for an extravagant charity event at the trendy restaurant Mimi’s in Coogee, which is known for its upscale atmosphere.

Sisters Simone and Madeline Holtznagel spearheaded the prestigious attendees – which included celebrities from reality shows, wives of athletes, and matrons of high-society – as they donned their finest to support fundraising efforts for the Royal Hospital for Women.

Amidst the throng, there was Bernadette Fahey, often referred to as Bondi’s “queen of Pilates” – the spouse of Buildcorp COO Jordan Sukkar – reportedly maintaining a discreet presence as of late.

In addition, there were personalities like Montarna McDonald, a popular figure in public relations, Terry Biviano, an icon from The Real Housewives of Sydney, and Deborah Symond O’Neil, a wealthy heiress from Aussie Home Loans.

At the event now being referred to as ‘the society summit‘, Poppy O’Neil, who is married to freight tycoon Anthony Tzaneros, was also present.

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According to a source, some of the costumes were perplexing, considering the motif was supposed to represent the 1950s. It’s for you to judge whether the women managed to meet the dress code expectations.

At the forefront, you could find the Holtznagels, radiating elegance with their eye-catching high-end designer outfits.

Showing that elegance is a family tradition, the sisters gracefully linked arms as they stepped off, embodying each bit of the Australian aristocracy they represent.

Simone, aged 32, chose an elegant and refined style in a sleek, strapless black midi dress designed by Rebecca Vallance. The dress showcased stylish cut-outs and a traditional shape.

In a chic and timeless manner, Simone, who is 32 years old, selected a striking strapless black midi dress from the designer Rebecca Vallance. This elegant piece included eye-catching cut-outs and boasted a classic silhouette.

At a recent lunch event, Madeline, aged 28, who gave birth to Jaeger alongside Justin Hemmes, the CEO of Merivale, on June 1st, showcased her post-pregnancy physique for the first time.

In a shimmering, rose-gold sequin dress adorned with delicate beadwork on the bodice and a captivating, deep-cut neckline, I found myself looking absolutely stunning.

As a seasoned lifestyle expert, I must admit that I was thoroughly impressed by Montarna, the innovative founder of The Audience Agency, who not only exuded professional prowess but also radiated elegance in her chic, strapless white dress at the event.

She showed up together with Bernadette, the mastermind of energetic eastern suburbs Pilates and manifestation studio Body by Berner, who stood out in a gown from Magda Butrym’s collection.

At fifty years old, Anthony Minichiello’s wife, Terry, radiated elegance in a striking red designer gown, accentuating her style with coordinating heels and a chic Lady Dior leather handbag.

As a dedicated follower, I must share that Deborah, the radiant daughter of Aussie John Symond and beloved wife of Addenbrooke director Ned O’Neil, gracefully stood out in a captivating pink maxi dress designed by the talented Turkish fashion designer, İlkyaz Özel.

The blush-toned creation featured a chic off-the-shoulder neckline and sleek column silhouette.

In a more conversational and simpler manner, one could say: Poppy, an interior designer, demonstrated that timeless styles remain relevant when she made quite an impression wearing a striking red, strapless dress.

The dark-haired woman radiated beauty in her tight, crimson dress, boasting a stylish bandeau neckline and a bold slit up the legs.

She was accompanied by Lou O’Neil, a prominent figure in society and the daughter of Donald Hay, the deceased founder of Hayco, who is married to property developer Jake O’Neil, Ned’s brother.

Lou, who shared the news in June that she and Jake were having another baby, chose an airy, elegant look with a flowing, ivory dress.

Near the glitz, our photographer spotted a well-known figure who was conspicuous, almost striking out: morning talk show host Ben Fordham of 2GB.

It wasn’t clear if he took part in the charity event or simply walked by, but the image of the serious-faced reporter, famous for his heated morning radio discussions, surrounded by elegantly dressed socialites, was quite entertaining.

In the warm embrace of the setting sun along Coogee’s breathtaking shoreline, I found myself surrounded by a passionate group, all dressed with an undeniable flair and fervor, unwaveringly committed to our noble cause.

The well-executed gathering served as an elegant demonstration that charitable giving in the trendy eastern districts of Sydney can be stylishly appealing.

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2025-09-05 03:33