The Sapphire Project Gala

Sara Flaksbard

Event Overview:

The Sapphire Project’s 5th Anniversary Gala at Carriageworks raised an extraordinary $1.6 million for ocean conservation, adding to more than $5 million raised over the last five years. As the catering partner since the very first gala, Laissez-Faire Catering has been integral to the event’s success, not only delivering premium hospitality but also donating a $3,500 catering package each year to the raffle in support of the cause.

For the 2025 edition, Laissez-faire worked in partnership with Forged by Vow—a pioneer in “deliberately different meats.” Rather than imitating existing proteins, Forged creates innovative, sustainable alternatives that reimagine the future of food. This collaboration brought a new dimension to the gala, aligning perfectly with Sapphire’s mission to protect the oceans through creativity and sustainability.

Culinary Success:

Guests experienced a menu designed to surprise, delight, and provoke conversation. Canapés featured sea urchin omelettes with finger lime caviar and Forged Japanese quail croquettes with yuzu mayo, Amaranth and Elderflower. Entrées included South Australian King George Whiting with brown butter alongside a vegan sweet potato tart with toasted pepitas. Mains showcased Glacier 51 Patagonian Toothfish with miso butter, sea spray and Tenella purple seaweed, plus Coppertree Farms Beef Fillet with Café de Paris butter, balanced with plant-based innovations. A delicate vanilla mousse with raspberry jelly and lime provided a memorable finale, complemented by Belvedere cocktails and fine Australian wines.

Impact and Success:

The gala was seen as a resounding success, demonstrating the value of Laissez-Faire’s ability to curate and manage partnerships that enrich the guest experience. By bringing Forged by Vow into the event, Laissez-Faire showcased how sustainability, science, and fine dining can work in harmony to support a powerful cause.

Conversation:

The event was a catalyst for much positive conversation. To call out but a few, CIM praised the event and offered a superb commentary of the evening. Micenet spoke of the incredible partnership that Laissez-Faire introduced with Forged. Global Travel Media went into detail around the specifics of the Candlelit Quail while praising the event as a new frontier for dining.

As Founder Ryan Gollan reflected: “Laissez-faire Catering has been with us since the very first Sapphire event 5 years ago, and their support has been nothing short of extraordinary. From day one, they’ve embraced our commitment to sustainability, creating innovative, zero-waste menus that not only taste incredible but also align perfectly with our mission to protect what is precious.