Cutler Merz raised over $10,980

Who

CutlerMerz is a specialist management, engineering and economic consulting firm serving the power and energy sector. The firm takes its name from Ian Cutler, a mentor to the founding members whose values remain deeply embedded in the company culture.

Tragically, Ian passed away from a rare cancer around 12 years ago. So, when it came time to mark CutlerMerz’s 10th anniversary, the team felt it only fitting to honour his legacy by supporting Rare Cancers Australia. With the help of Givergy, the gala became not just a celebration, but also a chance to give back to a cause close to their hearts.

What

The Cutler Merz 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner took place at The Calyx in Sydney’s Royal Botanic Gardens on Saturday 13th September 2025. Guests enjoyed a warm spring evening that began with outdoor canapés and welcome drinks, before moving into a seated gala dinner. The evening featured live entertainment and heartfelt speeches, creating a true atmosphere of gratitude and celebration.

How

To maximise participation, guests were reminded throughout the night by the Emcee to scan the Givergy QR code conveniently printed on the back of every menu — ensuring everyone had easy access to the auction. The QR code had also been shared with guests prior to the event, giving them the opportunity to browse items in advance.

Cutler Merz used Givergy’s silent auction and donation platform, with remote technical support ensuring everything ran smoothly on the night.

Result

The event raised an incredible $10,980 in total. Guests contributed around $5,500 through auction items and donations, and CutlerMerz generously matched all proceeds dollar-for-dollar — doubling the impact for Rare Cancers Australia.

Top Tip: “Have more items at a lower price point (starting from around $50) — even if you have to source them yourself. Also, don’t showcase too many products; it can be overwhelming and slow bidding momentum. A good rule of thumb is a maximum of 10 items for 200 guests, or about 5 items per 100 people.”