Leading accounting and advisory firm William Buck’s dedicated GLOW Charity Night was held on Tuesday, 23 May at Sydney Zoo’s GLOW Festival.

William Buck’s GLOW Charity Night treated Kids and families from many organisations – including Variety Children’s Charity, Ronald McDonald House, Kids West and the Westmead Children’s Hospital Foundation – to an unforgettable night of interactive installations, an after-dark aquarium, accessible rides, food trucks and the appearance of children’s icon Emma Memma.

For many, this was their first light festival experience and for some, their first night out of hospital in months.

“We have been absolutely delighted to host a charity night at Sydney Zoo’s GLOW festival. Spreading happiness to these children and their families aligns with our Changing Lives philosophy and desire to make a positive impact within the local Western Sydney community,” said John Spender, Director, William Buck.

Jake Burgess, Managing Director of the Sydney Zoo said: “We want to make sure that every child has the opportunity to attend a Light Festival. It's heart-warming to see the smiles on kids’ faces and know that we made a difference to their lives.”

The highlight of the night was undoubtedly the surprise appearance of children’s icon, Emma Memma. The beloved entertainer met and greeted the kids, and took photos, bringing smiles to faces and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Amongst the attendees was Zaharra, a 7-year-old girl bravely battling Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD). FSHD is a rare genetic disorder that primarily affects the muscles. The disease often leaves a person incapable of blinking, swallowing, eating, smiling, and walking.

Zaharra’s muscles are deteriorating at a rapid rate, she needs a custom wheelchair to support her quality of life. Zaharra’s parents have done two local fundraisers to help fund a chair but have not been able to raise enough money.

With incredible generosity, William Buck and Sydney Zoo, with the support of Sunrise Medical donated a customised wheelchair worth $30,000 to Zaharra. This remarkable donation will have a profound impact on her life, providing newfound mobility and independence.

GLOW at Sydney Zoo is an accessible and inclusive event, designed specifically with no hills or steps for varying levels of mobility, for everyone to have a fun time.