Driving impact for wildlife overseas: the Macquarie Capital Drive to Survive

In the world of conservation, creativity knows no bounds! In its race to help save Australia from its extinction crisis, Australian Wildlife Conservancy UK (AWC UK) is continually on the lookout for innovative ways to raise funds in an overseas market. On a chilly January afternoon the idea was hatched to build on AWC’s long-standing relationship with Macquarie in Australia and its relationship with AWC ambassador, Mark Webber AO. Not only is Mark an Aussie racing legend, but he’s also a passionate conservationist who is dedicated to securing a future for Australia’s wildlife. Hence, the concept of an electric go-karting fundraiser was born!

Ant Charlton/AWC

The “Drive to Survive” function, featuring Mark Webber, was hosted by Macquarie Capital on 12 September and consisted of 15 teams from Macquarie’s client base in the UK. The excitement on the night was palpable, with plenty of rivalry between the teams as the drivers vied for supremacy on the track, knocking out the competition in a tournament-style race. Mark Webber generously donated our auction prize, a money-can’t-buy-experience to enter the inner sanctum of F1: two F1 Paddock tickets to the qualifying day of the 2024 British Grand Prix at Silverstone. We opened the bidding online before the event, and as expected, there was so much competition for the tickets we had a live bidding war on the night too!

Ant Charlton/AWC

“Today, we stand at a critical juncture in history, where the survival of countless species and the preservation of our planet’s biodiversity hang in the balance. The Macquarie Capital Drive to Survive event was not just about having a lot of fun; it was about rallying together to confront one of the most pressing issues of our time. Australian Wildlife Conservancy embodies the spirit of action, dedication, and hope that we need to combat the extinction crisis. I am honoured to stand alongside them as an ambassador… Together, we embark on a journey to preserve what is precious and embrace a brighter future for wildlife. Thank you all for your generosity and for being part of this vital race.”
Mark Webber AO.

The event served as a fun and engaging way to raise much-needed funds for the protection of Australia’s unique and endangered wildlife. Through the generosity of participants and the matching donation from the Macquarie Group Foundation, we were thrilled to tally up nearly A$300,000 for AWC! This is an extraordinary outcome, that could fund our Ecohealth program at one sanctuary for three years. This substantial sum will make a significant difference in the efforts to secure the future of Australia’s wildlife.

Ant Charlton/AWC

“Australian Wildlife Conservancy’s relationship with Macquarie has developed over many years… I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Macquarie for their steadfast support and unwavering dedication to Australian Wildlife Conservancy’s work. Your generous sponsorship has enabled us to achieve remarkable results for biodiversity and to safeguard the future of Australia’s wildlife.”
Tim Allard.

AWC UK is a registered charity in England and Wales, and provides a giving vehicle for those residing in the UK for tax purposes to contribute towards AWC’s important work. We are incredibly grateful for the support of the AWC UK Board and our generous network of supporters in the UK and Europe.

Ant Charlton/AWC

“Once again, thank you to everyone who participated in our Drive to Survive event. The energy you brought to the electric go-kart racetrack made for intense competition, great entertainment and a fun evening for everyone… With your generous donations and matching by the Macquarie Group Foundation, the event has raised close to A$300,000 for Australian Wildlife Conservancy. I’m incredibly proud of this donation, as both a long-standing Macquarie employee and a recently appointed board member of AWC’s UK branch.”
Adam Hain, Senior Managing Director, Macquarie Capital and AWC UK Trustee.