PR boss running Meghan Markle’s £1,700-a-ticket girls’ weekend ‘goes bust’ | Royal | News
The company behind a luxury retreat headed by Meghan Markle has been plunged into financial turmoil, according to reports. It was reported that the PR agency run by one of its organisers, had collapsed with debts in excess of half a million Australian dollars.
Australian broadcaster Gemma O’Neill, who is promoting her “Her Best Life Retreat” event in Sydney, is facing increasing scrutiny after her talent management company Gemmie Agency went into voluntary liquidation with debts of more than $543,000, primarily to the Australian Taxation Office. Despite financial difficulties, the Duchess of Sussex’s representatives confirmed that she will continue to attend the three-day event, scheduled to be held at the InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach from 17-19 April.
Organized by Besties Australia, a joint venture between O’Neill and radio star Jackie ‘O’ Henderson, the retreat promises a luxurious weekend experience. Tickets cost up to £1,705 or AUD$3,199 and include a gala dinner, a group photo with Meghan and access to an on-stage interview.
Approximately 300 participants are expected to attend the seaside event, which will include wellness activities such as meditation, sound healing and panel discussions, as well as social events such as evening and poolside meetings with a DJ.
The financial collapse of O’Neill’s agency has raised questions about stability behind the scenes. Administrators from Grant Thornton Australia were appointed following the liquidation of the Gemmie Agency in November. The firm’s debts include more than $543,000 owed to the tax office and smaller amounts owed to other creditors.
O’Neill told administrators he could not pay his debts, citing limited income, lack of personal savings and a failed attempt to refinance his Sydney property.
The bankruptcy report also makes reference to an $18,143 loan made by Gemmie Agency to Besties Australia. Executives requested further explanation of the transaction.
O’Neill said the loan was recorded incorrectly and may have related to company expenses rather than flowing directly into the events business.
The event was also notable for the attendance of Meghan’s longtime confidant Markus Anderson, who is said to have brokered the deal. O’Neill described her as a close friend and noted that he suggested Meghan as the headline guest.
The announcement came shortly after uproar over Henderson’s radio career. Her long-running show with Kyle Sandilands on KIIS FM was taken off air following an on-air dispute and it was later reported that their contract had been terminated.
The scale of Gemmie Agency’s debts contrasts with the seven-figure commission the firm reportedly received from a major client between late 2023 and early 2024, administrators said.
O’Neill is expected to formally respond to creditors’ findings this week. Organizers said the retreat will go ahead as planned and will continue to promote it as a premier wellness and networking experience for women.
