By Rebecca Harris
One of Melbourne’s top bars, Golden Monkey, has released a 2009 calendar to raise money for cancer research.
Featuring 12 full-page shots of their female bartenders, including Misty Hoeta and Joey Tai, all proceeds from the calendar will be donated to the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation, the only hospital in Australia solely dedicated to treating cancer.
Golden Monkey owner Michael Chen said the idea for the calendar was born when a photographer came in to create a folio of the bar team.
“At first we thought it would be something fun to do, but then we thought we could actually do something good with it,” he said. “The Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation is something that is very close to mine and [other owners] Andre and Adam’s hearts.”
Of the initial print run of 800, over 500 calendars have already been sold at $15 each.
“The support from the public has been tremendous,” said Chen. “We’d definitely like to pursue charity ventures like this in the future, and possibly on a bigger scale.”
The release of the calendar also marks the third birthday for the bar, which is known for its Asian-themed cocktails and as the location of the Melbourne Rum Club.
Golden Monkey was also the winner of Best Bar Team at the 2008 Australian Liquor Industry Awards (ALIA).