Branson life of Virgin party Media Man Int

Branson life of Virgin party - 29th March 2008

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HE'S the man who has perfected flying visits . . . and dazzling parties.

Sir Richard Branson jetted in to Brisbane yesterday for one of his famous whirlwind tours which included meeting staff and customers, mingling with Queensland's movers and shakers, hosting the "party of the year", and helping to raise more than $1 million for charity.

Few people pack more into a day than this ever-smiling self-made billionaire – but it helps when you have your own airline.

The flamboyant 57-year-old mogul, ranked the world's 236th richest man by Forbes magazine, landed in Brisbane at 3.25pm yesterday after getting up close and personal with passengers on a Virgin Blue flight from Sydney.

Earlier, he attended for the first time the Sydney version of his iconic UK music event – the V Festival.

In Brisbane last night, Sir Richard was host at the Virgin Blue Hangar Ball, arriving by helicopter to greet guests on the red carpet at Brisbane Airport. Even leading politicians, including Federal Treasurer Wayne Swan and Premier Anna Bligh, were swept up by the Sir Richard tornado.

Before the ball, Sir Richard attended an exclusive private party at an undisclosed location. Insiders told The Sunday Mail it was held at Virgin Blue CEO Brett Godfrey's million-dollar home at Ascot.

A quick wardrobe change and it was off to greet the bevy of Aussie celebrities at the ball .

The Virgin Blue hangar was transformed from an empty shell into a party mecca after months of careful planning.

Invited guests included radio shock jock Derryn Hinch, television personalities Natalie Gruzlewski and Catriona Rowntree, South Sydney Rabbitohs co-owner Peter Holmes a Court, and politicians.

The black-tie event was due to wrap up at 2am, but a Virgin Blue spokeswoman said she would not be surprised to hear that the energetic Sir Richard later hit Brisbane's top nightspots.

The ball attracted 3000 people and Sir Richard hoped it would raise more than $1 million for charity.

Today he will visit the Sunshine Coast where he is building his dream Balinese-style eco retreat on Makepeace Island on the Noosa River.

The Virgin Blue spokeswoman said Sir Richard would inspect the project before jetting off to attend the V Festival on the Gold Coast.

Today's event at Avica Resort will feature big names like the Smashing Pumpkins, Duran Duran and Queens of the Stone Age.

He was expected to leave Brisbane on the last Virgin Blue flight to Sydney tonight.

(News.com.au)