The Australian Doctors Orchestra will take centre stage at The Concourse in Chatswood on Sunday, October 12, bringing together 100 medical professionals from across the country for a concert.
This year’s performance will raise funds and awareness for the Batten Disease Support and Research Association (BDSRA) Australia, supporting families living with the rare neurodegenerative condition.
Each year, the orchestra tours a different state and selects a charity to benefit from its concert. For 2025, BDSRA Australia was chosen, a cause that is close to the heart of Warriewood mother and volunteer Bobbie Lewis, whose daughter lives with Batten disease.
“We were lucky enough to be chosen as the charity this year,” Bobbie explained. “Not only does this give us the chance to raise vital funds, but it also allows us to spread awareness about a disease most people have never heard of.”
Batten disease is the most common form of childhood dementia, though few outside the medical community are familiar with it. Children with the condition experience seizures, vision loss, cognitive decline and a gradual loss of mobility.
“It’s such a horrible disease because it’s not just one symptom, it’s one thing after another,” Bobbie said. She emphasised the importance of early diagnosis and ongoing research, noting that while one type of Batten disease currently has a treatment, there is still no cure.
The upcoming concert program is a mix of classical favourites and modern works.
Audiences can expect Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9, “From the New World,” Gershwin’s Piano Concerto, featuring acclaimed soloist Simon Tedeschi, and contemporary Australian compositions.
Beyond the music, Bobbie believes the event will bring the community together. “The support we get is actually life-changing to our children,” she said. “It’s not just about enjoying a wonderful performance, it’s about knowing that every ticket helps fund research and supports families newly diagnosed with this devastating disease.”
For Warriewood mother Bobbie, the involvement of the orchestra’s doctors is especially meaningful. “They give up their time, they rehearse months in advance, then they come together for this once weekend,” she said. “We’re just so grateful to be part of something so magnificent.”
Tickets for the concert are now on sale, with all proceeds going directly to BDSRA Australia.
Visit www.theconcourse.com.au/event/the-australian-doctors-orchestra-new-world-concert/
