Let celebrity chef Anna Polyviou treat you to a high tea at Kembla Grange Racecourse – all for a good cause

An old bag can have a fabulous day at the races, all for a good cause, on Friday, 9 August.

The inaugural Spring Racing Old Bags High Tea will be held at Kembla Grange Racecourse by the Illawarra Women’s Health Centre as a fundraiser for its services and Dressed for Success.

The day out will delight guests with an unforgettable experience in the racecourse’s Bert Lillye Lounge, where renowned celebrity dessert chef Anna Polyviou will headline the event.

Known for her extraordinary pastry creations and rockstar flair, Anna is also passionate about all women coming together to stand up against family violence.

“A woman is dying every five days in Australia – it is not OK that we see this every day in the news,” she said.

“It’s such a great cause to support not just for myself but my team as well. We have the opportunity to give back to the community, and we’re going to have a look at the centre and see how the money will be spent.

“Dressed for Success was my charity of choice on I’m A Celebrity … Get Me Out Of Here. It’s not just about women’s appearance, it’s about giving them the confidence to get back into the workforce.

“Women who’ve left violent relationships have to rebuild themselves completely to get back onto their feet, and I love that Dressed for Success looks at the issue from a woman’s perspective.

“It’s not just about raising money, it’s about raising awareness. We all know a woman who has gone through this, it’s been happening for generations and it is not OK.”

As well as sweet treats from Anna, guests are encouraged to dress in their best raceday outfit, with a silent auction, raffle and other themed activities on the schedule.

At the silent auction, attendees will have the chance to bid on bags donated by high-profile Australians, including a special pack from chef Anna.

Guests are invited to bring along a pre-loved handbag of their own (in excellent condition) or a new handbag to donate to Dressed for Success and support another woman as she starts her next chapter.

To whet your appetite, Anna has shared some of her menu plan for the day.

“I’m doing something really different, so we’ll have something warm for people as they walk in with their glass of bubbles,” Anna said.

“Think arancini balls and mini pies. Then classic high tea sandwiches, shredded chicken and egg, along with sourdough crumpets with smoked salmon, tea scones and vanilla scones.

“We’ll finish with some lovely cheeses from Fromager d’Affinois and fruit, and a Basque cheesecake.

“If you buy a ticket, you’re going to be treated to a really lovely day.”

There’s just one snag.

As a famous chef, Anna is selective about her ingredients. She’s worked in London, Paris, the US, Sydney and Melbourne – but not Wollongong.

She’s on the hunt for the best charcoal chicken in town.

“We need chickens for our chicken sandwiches, and everyone is passionate about who does the best charcoal chicken,” she said.

“We want someone local, and I don’t know the chicken shops in Wollongong as well as a local – I’m taking suggestions!”

To buy your tickets to the Spring Racing Old Bags High Tea, head to Humanitix.