Christopher's Mates Charity BBQ

Published on 02 May 2023

The City of Ryde is proud to support a fundraising event being held by the Touched by Christopher Foundation on 21 May 2023 at Lachlan’s Line Park.

Christopher Cassaniti was an 18-year-old form worker apprentice working on some scaffolding at a Lachlan’s Line building site in Macquarie Park on 1 April 2019 when it collapsed, resulting in his death.

In the wake of the tragedy, Christopher’s mother Patrizia Cassaniti established the Touched by Christopher Foundation, which supports families who have lost a loved one to workplace accidents in NSW.

The Foundation donates three months’ worth of grocery vouchers to affected families and up to $1,500 towards outstanding utility bills. Patrizia also visits worksites around the state, telling Christopher’s story and highlighting the importance of workplace safety procedures.

The Christopher’s Mates charity BBQ on 21 May, which will be held between 11.00am-3.00pm, hopes to attract more than 200 people, with tickets at $10 per head.

Council is donating $1,918 to help with event costs.

City of Ryde Mayor Clr Sarkis Yedelian OAM acknowledged the vital support provided by the Touched by Christopher Foundation to families following devastating and life-changing workplace accidents.

“The Cassaniti family will never get over the loss of their much-loved son and brother but the way they have channelled their grief into something tangible that helps other families is a remarkable achievement,” he said.

“Council is proud to support this fundraising BBQ, which will be held at the Memorial we established for Christopher at Lachlan’s Line Park in August 2020.”

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