What Sydney’s elites are whispering about slimmed-down Shelley Sullivan after ‘the party of the year’ – as a controversial society figure makes his return a year after his arrest

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Shelley Sullivan, a prominent business leader, cemented her reputation as Sydney’s top hostess by throwing a party that many are already calling the best of the year.

I have to tell you about a fun surprise! It started as a small, intimate lunch – just around 20 of us – that I co-hosted with Toby Borg, a fantastic talent agent. But then, a wonderful surprise unfolded! It wasn’t just a lunch at all; it was actually a 50th birthday party for the incredibly talented artist, Daimon Downey. We all had such a great time celebrating him!

What started as a small, private lunch had, by evening, transformed into a glamorous party filled with Sydney’s most influential people – artists, models, and business leaders alike.

In true Shelley fashion, the spotlight was never far from the MCoBeauty founder.

Despite a recent breakup that could have been devastating, she confidently stepped out looking incredible in two stunning designer outfits: a custom gown by Alex Perry, and a chic dress by David Koma.

People were struck by how stylish and radiant she looked. Friends say her weight loss isn’t due to typical methods like stress, medication, or extreme dieting, but a complete focus on health, feeling good, and a balanced lifestyle.

I’m hearing that Sullivan is already planning her next venture, and those in the know say it’s going to be a real surprise – something daring and sure to make a big impact.

‘She isn’t retiring after selling MCoBeauty. Far from it,’ they said. ‘She’s just getting started.’

The guest list sparked a lot of conversation, and one notable late arrival was Alan Yazbek, the owner of the popular Sydney restaurant Nomad and Melbourne’s Reine & La Rue, who came with his wife.

As a lifestyle expert, I follow these cases closely, and it’s important to understand what happened with Yazbek. Last December, he admitted to showing a Nazi symbol, but ultimately avoided a conviction. It’s a complex situation, and highlights the challenges of balancing free expression with the harm such symbols can cause.

Two months prior, he participated in a demonstration supporting Palestine in Hyde Park. He carried a sign that looked like the Israeli flag, but with the Star of David replaced by a blue swastika.

I was really shocked to hear about the trouble my friend got into. He made some ill-considered comments about the Israeli military, and it caused a huge mess. Not only did it lead to legal issues, but his wife and business partner, Rebecca, was absolutely furious with him – I heard she was really giving him the cold shoulder. It’s a tough situation all around.

Yazbek expressed deep regret, telling reporters after the court hearing that he hoped the Jewish community would eventually forgive him. He said his only wish was for peace in the area.

I was so surprised to see him there! Apparently, he was Robert Downey Jr.’s guest, but everyone was talking about it. I even overheard someone whisper that showing up at a Point Piper party right now took serious nerve – they called it pure chutzpah, and honestly, I kind of agreed!

Jeweller Chrissi James, from Potts Point, was seen playfully chasing after her sometimes-boyfriend, Tony Benjamin – who’s known as ‘Mr Sexy Time’ – suggesting their relationship is still a bit on-and-off.

The couple, whose relationship is famously on-again, off-again, was displaying a confusing mix of affection and distance – one minute they were close and loving, and the next they were quickly moving away from each other.

As one guest quipped: ‘It’s exhausting just watching them, but you can’t look away.’

Fashion entrepreneur Pip Edwards, model Montana Cox, and Bobby Oatley, whose grandfather was the late Bob Oatley, mingled with a diverse group of Sydney celebrities – it was a who’s who of the city’s social scene.

Swimming great Ian Thorpe was seen chatting animatedly with prominent lawyer Rebekah Giles. Meanwhile, former Australian rules footballer Adam Goodes was present but kept a relatively low profile.

Theo Onisforou, the developer known for Paddington’s fashion hub, and Julian Tobias, a prominent figure in the nightlife scene, hosted a lively event where singer Daimon unexpectedly performed with Sneaky Sound System. This sparked rumors that the popular electro-pop band might be planning a tour to celebrate their 20th anniversary.

I’m so excited for Downey! He’s really back and making amazing things happen. He’s releasing a new album called ‘Bondi Boys’ with Michael Delaney from Honky Tonks, and he’s also having a big art exhibition at Saint Cloche next year – I can’t wait to see it all!

He recently showcased a large ceramic sculpture at Hotel Ravesis in Bondi Beach, further establishing himself as a key figure in Sydney’s art world.

But for all the star power, the evening ultimately belonged to Sullivan.

She hosted a celebration that was both elegant and cozy, feeling effortless despite being carefully planned and beautifully done. She always has a knack for making events feel special.

Or as one insider put it on the way out: ‘It could only have been Shelley.’

 

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2025-10-07 16:39