Francesca Packer-Barham and Robert Bates spark split rumours after three years together

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Reports are surfacing that Francesca Packer-Barham and her entrepreneur boyfriend, Robert Bates, may be going their separate ways. New rumours suggest a possible split between the pair.

Sources speaking to The Daily Telegraph report that rumors are circulating in Sydney’s eastern suburbs indicating the couple has discreetly ended their three-year relationship.

They were last spotted together at a party celebrating Packer-Barham’s 30th birthday in December 2024. Bates made an entrance dressed as the character Matthew McConaughey played in Dallas Buyers Club.

According to friends, the couple was frequently at Packer-Barham’s estate in Palm Beach, and Bates was often seen driving her distinctive bright pink G63 Mercedes.

One insider even suggested the pair may be in Ibiza attempting to salvage their romance.

Since starting in 2022, the relationship has been closely examined, and one reason is the 15-year age difference between the two people involved.

Bates, who is divorced and a father, was once featured on the Australian Financial Review’s Young Rich List. At that time, his wealth was estimated to be around $145 million.

As a lifestyle expert, I’ve been following the industry for years, and I’ve noticed a lot of brands come and go. I’m familiar with the story of the individual who previously led Aurum+ and Aquamamma – unfortunately, those wellness brands didn’t succeed. However, he’s also an entrepreneur and is currently the founder of 7 Trinity Biotech. It’s always interesting to see how people evolve in their careers, and I’m watching what he does with this new venture.

Packer-Barham, whose grandfather was the famous media figure Kerry Packer and whose mother is Gretel Packer, has generally stayed out of the public eye recently. However, she publicly acknowledged her relationship with Bates in late 2022, following photos of them kissing on a yacht in Sydney Harbour.

Neither Packer-Barham nor Bates has commented on the rumours.

Apparently, Roxy Jacenko, a well-known public relations expert and social figure in Sydney, brought the two together. She was working as Francesca’s publicist at the time of the introduction.

She apparently quickly fell in love with the divorced father and even told her friends she wanted to have a family with him.

Robert led the now-defunct wellness companies Aurum+ and Aquamamma, and he also established 7 Trinity Biotech.

In December, no expense was spared for Francesca’s birthday party as she rang in her 30th year.

A wealthy heiress threw a costume party at the fancy restaurant Mimi’s in Coogee, and the guest list was full of celebrities. It was quite the event! Everyone who was anyone attended. The party was a huge success.

The event also welcomed influencer Indy Clinton, who made a splash with her costume – she dressed as Pamela Anderson from her Baywatch era, complete with a blonde wig and a red swimsuit. It was a memorable look! More details about the event are available here.

Lisa Wilkinson, who used to host The Project, was also at the event, but she didn’t follow the dress code. Instead of a fancy costume, she chose a stylish, relaxed black suit.

Norwegian singer Adelén joined in the fun, choosing to dress as Julia Roberts from the beloved romantic comedy Pretty Woman.

Francesca, who was dressed in a Wednesday Addams costume, held court with her boyfriend Robert.

Also coming along to celebrate the occasion was her grandmother, Roslyn, and her mother, Gretel.

Bella Wolfgang Clinton was also present and offered a peek into the party, where guests enjoyed oysters and pasta.

People who went to the party shared photos on social media showing them having fun with caviar and champagne and celebrating late into the night, until the wee hours.

Throughout the evening, socialites and celebrities chatted and mixed with each other, playfully taking selfies in the restroom and dancing energetically as the night progressed.

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2025-10-05 02:06