Rallying to help family in need

Celebrity chef Alastair McLeod is part of a charity fundraiser being held next week for a special member of the Ocean View Estates team.

Functions head chef Niki and her “gorgeous family” have been confronted by a “challenge no family should have to face”, Ocean View owner Kate Honnef said.

Niki’s husband Jason has been diagnosed with terminal brain cancer, leaving the family - which includes children Zaisha and Jasper - facing an uncertain future.

“Their world has been turned upside down,” Kate said.

“Alongside navigating treatment, uncertainty and the precious time they have together, they are carrying the emotional and financial burden that comes with such a devastating diagnosis.

“Jason is a much-loved husband, father and friend. Now it’s our turn to give some of that back.”

Kate said Zaisha has grown up surrounded by the hospitality community and become part of it, while Jasper is “just beginning to find his place in the world”.

The fundraiser, organised by a friend of Niki’s, is on Thursday July 2 from 6-10pm hosted by Ocean View Estates and chaired by Alastair McLeod.

Tickets are $110 for three shared courses, live music, a silent auction and “lots of fun!” For tickets click here.

Kate said many know Niki as a chef, colleague, mentor and friend who for years has poured her heart into caring for others through food, hospitality and generosity.

“At Little Tree, she wasn’t simply the head chef - she helped create a place where people felt welcome, connected and looked after,” Kate said. “The kind of place that felt like home.

“Join us for an evening of incredible food, wine and connection as chefs, venues, producers, friends and guests come together to support Niki, Jason, Zaisha and Jasper.”

Every ticket sold, every donation made and every seat filled will help ease the burden on their family and remind them they are not facing this journey alone.