The second annual Cape Leopard Trust Fundraiser was an incredible success. More than two hundred guests arrived at Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards for the lunch and auction that raised R460 600 for the conservation of the Cape Leopard.
Opulent Living Experiences, headed up by Florian Gast and Barbara Lenhard, coordinated the festivities on the day. Guests were welcomed upon arrival by the internationally acclaimed dance group, Die Nuwe Graskoue Trappers, followed by a 3-course lunch prepared by four renowned chefs: in-house chef Pieter de Jager, Christo Pretorius of 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa, Michelle Theron of Pierneef a La Motte and Floris Smith from Bushmanskloof – who’s dishes were all paired with Leopard’s Leap wines.
Celebrity MC’s, Africa Melane and Elana Afrika, captivated the crowd in the build up to the auction that featured lot items including a Dylan Lewis maquette, a painting by self-taught Cape Town based artist Andrew Cooper valued at R110,000 and a Leopard photograph by leading photographer and filmmaker Adrian Steirn, valued at R50,000.
Helen Turnbull, CEO of the Cape Leopard Trust, said in appreciation: “ The atmosphere at the event was incredible and we are extremely grateful to all those who participated. The funds raised this year will go towards sustaining The Cape Leopard Trust operations, primarily paying airtime for satellite tracking collars, fuel and financing the resumption of the Cederberg leopard research project.“
“Leopard’s Leap has been a proud sponsor of the trust since its inception and we have enjoyed being the host and associate of such a great cause and what has become a highly celebrated and enjoyed annual event,” added Hein Koegelenberg, CEO of Leopard’s Leap.
Thanks to the generosity and support of Leopard’s Leap, FNB, Fusion Global and Bridgestone, 100% of the funds raised have been donated to The Cape Leopard Trust.