The largest City Hawks crowd of the year assembled for the Grand Final Luncheon, held at the RACV Club in late September.

Guests were treated to a lively speech from Hawthorn and AFL Hall of Fame Inductee Robert “Dipper” DiPierdomenico, as well as constant discussions with host and MC, Hawthorn’s President Jeff Kennett.

Presenting partner Elite Property Care kicked-off the day by pledging its support for the Rioli Fund for Aboriginal Health by committing to raise $30,000 by 1 September 2012.

 In aid of this cause, Elite Property Care presented each guest with a brochure outlining their vision, and generously donated a total of $1,500 to the Rioli Fund as a gift from all guests in the room.

Guests were then treated to some special vision in the form of 2010 AFL Season highlights, followed by the final quarter of the 1989 blockbuster Grand Final between Hawthorn and Geelong.

Dipper provided lively entertainment as he spoke about his time with Hawthorn Football Club and his experience in playing finals.

He revealed to the surprised audience that he had never watched any footage until he saw the 1989 Grand Final on the screen over lunch. He then continued on in a speech focused on Hawthorn’s loss in the 1985 Grand Final, and coming back to win in 1986.

Guests were also treated to some inside stories from the footy trips that Dipper was involved in.

Listen to Dipper's speech, parental guidance is recommended due to some colourful language.

Two lucky guests of the Luncheon were lucky enough to take out the business card draw.

David Burrows from Yarra Trams and John Fogherty from Corrs Chambers Westgarth will be heading to the President’s Club function in 2011 with Elite Property Care and also took home a Hawthorn team-signed sherrin.

The  day was a great success with money raised generously donated to three charities  - The Rioli Fund, The Alannah and Madeline Foundation and Hawthorn’s major community partner beyondblue.

The City Hawks will continue in 2011, with dates yet to be announced.

If you would like to be added to the email database for these functions, please send through your details to events@hawthornfc.com.au