In early December, Sydney’s harbourside mansions become the epicenter of Australia’s elite social scene. The annual Christmas drinks hosted by Lachlan Murdoch and his wife Sarah at their Bellevue Hill estate, Le Manoir, is the highlight of the season for the nation’s political, business, and media power players. However, this year’s event was marked by a surprising absence of some expected high-profile figures.
Despite the absence of invitations for some, including your columnists, the event went ahead with a notable guest list. Siobhan McKenna, a long-time confidant of Lachlan Murdoch, was among the first to arrive, despite her recent departure from the News Corp empire. Her punctuality set the tone for an evening of mingling among media personalities such as Kieran Gilbert, Sharri Markson, and Andrew Bolt.
Notable Absences and Political Power Moves
Last year, Rupert Murdoch himself made an appearance, but this year he was notably absent. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was also missing, reportedly enjoying a vacation with his new wife, Jodie Haydon. Federal Opposition Leader Sussan Ley made a strategic entrance, riding in the front seat of her official vehicle, a move interpreted as a display of authority.
Angus Taylor, Ley’s former leadership rival, arrived fashionably late with his wife, barrister Louise Clegg. Meanwhile, NRL and Racing NSW executive Peter V’landys appeared less than pleased as he navigated the media throng.
Business and Media Titans in Attendance
The gathering was a showcase of Australia’s business and media heavyweights. Among them were David Gonski, Ryan Stokes, Hamish McLennan, and Gill McLachlan. The event also saw appearances from Nine Radio boss Tom Malone and 2GB’s Ben Fordham.
Harvey Norman CEO Katie Page and her husband Gerry Harvey were surprised by the media attention but engaged with reporters nonetheless. Vanessa Hudson, Qantas CEO, arrived fashionably late, alongside Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, a senator known for her outspoken views, accompanied by her husband Colin Lillie.
Social Dynamics and Cultural Observations
The event was not just about business and politics. Olympic legend Ian Thorpe made a discreet entrance, while Canva co-founder Clif Obrecht avoided the spotlight, perhaps due to his casual attire. The social dynamics were further highlighted by the presence of two neighbors heading to a different party, humorously noting their exclusion from the Murdoch event.
Penny Fowler, Rupert Murdoch’s niece and a prominent figure in her own right, brought a touch of festive cheer with her vibrant Dinosaur Designs bag, though its contents remained a mystery.
Implications and Reflections on Power and Influence
This year’s gathering at Le Manoir underscores the evolving dynamics of power and influence in Australia. The absences of key political figures like the Prime Minister and Treasurer Jim Chalmers, who was in New Zealand, suggest a shift in how political allegiance to media moguls is publicly displayed.
As the night drew to a close, the event served as a reminder of the enduring allure of the Murdoch family’s social gatherings, even as the landscape of media and political power continues to evolve. The absence of some figures and the presence of others reflect the complex interplay of influence and the ever-changing nature of Australia’s elite circles.
As the holiday season progresses, the implications of these social dynamics will continue to unfold, offering insight into the future of media and political relationships in the country.
