Latest News
21-May-13: In your Will, you have the power to make wishes come true.
Including a gift to Make-A-Wish in your Will is a way to reach out to children and families who need comfort at what is often a very frightening time in their lives.
Visit our Wills & Bequests section for more information.
13-May-13: National Volunteer Week 13-19 May
National Volunteer Week starts today, and on behalf of everyone at Make-A-Wish Australia, we would like to say thank you to each and every one of our 1,156 volunteers for the incredible contribution they make each year. Last year our 57 Volunteer Branches across Australia raised an incredible $1.83 million to help make wishes come true.
This amazing achievement was the result of countless hours of hard work and hundreds of fundraising activities and events.
01-May-13: Make-A-Wish has just been announced as the winner of the Colonial First State Charity Boost!
Make-A-Wish received the highest amount of nominations from the public and as a result will receive a very generous donation of $5,000 to help grant more wishes for seriously-ill children.
Thank you to everyone who nominated Make-A-Wish as your favourite charity and to Colonial First State for this great initiative.
19-Apr-13: The winners of Wish Day 2013 'most creative' competition!
Wish Day Ambassador and big wave surfer Mark Visser took on the serious task of judging the winners of our Wish Day 2013 'most creative' competition.
Entrants had to dress up and have fun with the theme of 'wear what you wish' for Wish Day while raising vital funds to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions.
Competition was fierce but Mark is a pro at performing under pressure. With fabulous prizes on the line, he expertly selected winners from each category and explained what gave them the winning edge.
See all the winning entrants.
9-Apr-13: The Swisse Color Run to raise funds for Make-A-Wish
The Swisse Color Run, also known as the happiest 5k on the planet, is a unique paint race that celebrates healthiness, happiness, individuality, and giving back to the community.
Make-A-Wish Australia is proud to be a charity partner of The Color Run Australia and the Celebrate Life Foundation for the Adelaide and Newcastle events.
NEWCASTLE - Sunday 5 May 2013
ADELAIDE - Sunday 19 May 2013
Register and fundraise to make children’s wishes come true with Team Wish.
4-Apr-13: Shop at Best & Less this month for your Make-A-Wish merchandise!
Best & Less have nominated Make-A-Wish as its charity of the month for April 2013.
You can visit one of their stores throughout Australia and pick up some fun Make-A-Wish Merchandise until the end of this month or until stocks run out.
Proceeds from the sale of the merchandise range will help grant wishes for children with life-threatening medical conditions so head in store now and show your support!
3-Apr-13: Miss Galaxy contestants raise an amazing $84,240!
Congratulations to all the contestants in Miss Galaxy Australia – their magnificent fundraising raised an incredible $80,240 for Make-A-Wish!
At the national finals, Jemma-Ashley Souren won Miss Galaxy Australia and Courtney-Jade Tester was crowned Miss Teen Galaxy Australia.
Their next stop will be America, where they are representing Australia in the International Miss Galaxy competition.
Good luck in the international final and thank you Australia Galaxy Pageants!
28-Mar-13: Exciting Charity Event Partnership
We are thrilled to announce that Make-A-Wish® has been chosen as the charity beneficiary for the upcoming Swisse Color Run events in Newcastle and Adelaide.
The Swisse Color Run is a one of a kind experience that is less about speed and more about enjoying a colourful and crazy day with your friends and family.
For those interested in participating the dates of these colourful new events are as follows:
Newcastle, 5 May 2013
Adelaide, 19 May 2013
22-Mar-13: The FINAL Wish Day Ambassador is…Curtis Stone!
Australian celebrity chef and international sensation Curtis Stone is passionate about more than just food. As the final celebrity to be announced as a Wish Day 2013 Ambassador, Curtis is no stranger when it comes to making wishes come true, having been involved in granting a little boy his wish in 2010.
“Every day should be full of wishes, especially for those seriously-ill kids who are waiting for their wishes to come. I’ll be getting behind Wish Day and I hope that the whole of Australia does too,” said Curtis.
Read the full Media Release.
21-Mar-13: DJ Havana Brown is turning the tables for Wish Day 2013!
With only one day to go until Make-A-Wish® Australia‟s Wish Day, Australian DJ and singer Havana Brown is the latest celebrity to be revealed as a Wish Day 2013 Ambassador.
Havana has recently enjoyed enormous success having spent the majority of 2012 based in the US, topping the US Billboard Dance Chart with her latest single "Big Banana'. Prior to that, her hit single "We Run The Night' sold over 2 million copies.
"I am really excited to be a Wish Day 2013 Ambassador and look forward to working with Make-A-Wish on lots more initiatives this year. This is a cause that is close to my heart and I believe we can all do a little more to show that we care and help make wishes come true for seriously-ill children," said Havana.
Read the full Media Release.
20-Mar-13: Funny man Peter Helliar gets serious about making wishes come true!
Hilarious comedian and actor Peter Helliar, is putting all funny business aside and supporting an organisation that he believes makes a real difference to the lives of children with life-threatening medical conditions.
As the eighth celebrity to be revealed as a Make-A-Wish, Wish Day 2013 Ambassador, Peter is proud to be supporting this annual fundraising event.
"I'm very excited to be a part of Wish Day 2013. It's great to contribute to a charity that is centered on granting wishes to kids who are struggling with a serious illness. It really can help bring relief and laughter at an otherwise difficult time." said Peter.
Read the full Media Release.
19-Mar-13: Zoe's a Winner in Make-A-Wish® Australia's eyes!
As a lead actress in the popular television show Winners and Losers, Zoe Tuckwell-Smith is passionate about supporting causes close to her heart and is extremely proud to be announced as the seventh Wish Day 2013 Ambassador.
"Wishes are the first step in realising our hearts desires and transforming them into reality. Through granting these seriously-ill children's wishes, Make-A-Wish allows a momentary escape from the more difficult side of their lives and connects them to their dreams once again, which may ignite them with hope. I'm grateful to be one of the Wish Day 2013 Ambassadors and urge everyone to please give generously this Wish Day," said Zoe.
Read the full Media Release.
18-Mar-13: Mark Visser rides the Wish Day wave!
As a big wave surfer and adventurer, Mark Visser usually spends his days tracking down some of the biggest waves on the planet, jumping out of planes, and fulfilling his wishes. This Wish Day however, Mark is helping to make other wishes come true – this time for seriously-ill children around Australia.
Mark is the sixth Wish Day Ambassador to be revealed as part of Make-A-Wish® Australia's countdown to Wish Day 2013. As a Make-A-Wish Ambassador, Mark is extremely passionate about supporting the organisation that he believes makes a real difference in sick children's lives.
"Granting wishes is such a powerful gift to give seriously-ill children. To see how much it impacts their lives by allowing them to focus on something they love and something that makes them really happy, is to me, the most inspiring thing ever. I'm so proud to be a Wish Day Ambassador and I really hope that Australia supports this important day," said Mark.
Read the full Media Release.
15-Mar-13: Rhiannon knows first-hand the power of a Make-A-Wish® wish!
Make-A-Wish® Australia has revealed Rhiannon Fish as the fifth Wish Day 2013 Ambassador alongside names such as Melissa Doyle, Nick Maxwell, Melanie Schlanger and Richard Davies.
Rhiannon, who plays April Scott on Home and Away, has experienced first-hand the impact that a wish has on a child with a life-threatening illness, when a friend of hers received a Make-A-Wish wish a few years ago.
"Make-A-Wish is a cause that is incredibly close to my heart. A friend of mine was a wish recipient a few years ago and I will never forget the look on her beautiful face when her wish was granted. She still lights up every time she talks about it! I think it is truly magical what Make-A-Wish does for seriously-ill children," said Rhiannon.
Rhiannon first appeared on our screens in Neighbours playing Lisa Jeffries. After roles in As the Bell Rings on the Australian Disney Channel and feature film Playing for Charlie in 2008, Rhiannon landed the role of April in Home and Away in 2010.
Read the full Media Release.
14-Mar-13: Offspring star Richard Davies jumps on the Wish Day wagon!
Known for his role as Jimmy Proudman in Channel 10's Offspring, Richard Davies is thrilled to be supporting an organisation that's close to his heart – Make-A-Wish Australia – as a Wish Day 2013 Ambassador.
As the fourth celebrity to be revealed by Make-A-Wish, Richard says of his appointment as a Wish Day Ambassador, "I'm excited to be supporting Make-A-Wish as a Wish Day Ambassador for 2013. It feels good to help sick children who are doing it tough."
Richard is making his way as both an actor and writer in the entertainment industry with roles including Max in The Saddle Club, Jimmy in Offspring, and an award winning short film under his belt – When the Wind Changes – that he produced, wrote and starred in.
Read the full Media Release.
14-Mar-13: Order the latest Entertainment Book & support Make-A-Wish
Order the latest Entertainment Book Australia for your locality through Make-A-Wish and enjoy hundreds of discount and special offers for popular restaurants, cinemas, hotels, the arts and sporting events. Plus $13 from every sale goes towards granting more cherished wishes for children with life-threatening illnesses.
Order Entertainment Book
13-Mar-13: Swimming sensation Melanie Schlanger, Wish Day Ambassador!
Olympian Melanie Schlanger is not only passionate about swimming, but passionate about making wishes come true for seriously-ill children.
As a current Official Friend of Make-A-Wish, Melanie was an obvious choice for a Wish Day 2013 Ambassador.
"I feel privileged to be a Wish Day Ambassador for Make-A-Wish Australia. This year‟s theme of "wear what you wish‟ is a fun and easy way for everyone to get involved in raising money for seriously-ill children," said Melanie.
Read the full Media Release.
12-Mar-13: Nick Maxwell is kicking serious goals for Make-A-Wish!
Collingwood Captain, Nick Maxwell, joins the secret star-studded line up of Wish Day 2013 Ambassadors as the second celebrity to be revealed by Make-A-Wish Australia.
Nick is no stranger to Make-A-Wish having been appointed as an official Ambassador by the organisation a few years ago. Since then, he has been involved in numerous wish granting experiences and has proudly supported the organisation at events throughout Victoria.
Read the full Media Release.
11-Mar-13: Make-A-Wish® reveals the first WISH DAY 2013 Ambassador!
Wish Day is on Friday 22 March 2013 and as Make-A-Wish® Australia's annual fundraising event – the countdown is officially on!
Make-A-Wish has chosen the perfect way to celebrate the countdown, by revealing a different celebrity Wish Day Ambassador each week day from today until Wish Day - Friday 22 March.
To kick it off, Make-A-Wish's National Patron Melissa Doyle, is the first celebrity revealed to the public today via the Make-A-Wish website and Facebook page.
Read the full Media Release.
7-Mar-13: Early Bird Prize Winner Announced!
Congratulations to the winner of our Wish Day Early Bird competition, Desma from Victoria, who will receive a Lenovo Thinkpad Tablet.
Register to fundraise and help grant the wishes of seriously-ill children this Wish Day, like Desma has, and you could win too! Fabulous prizes are still up for grabs for the ‘most creative’ Wish Day photos!
Our celebrity judges will decide who is deserving of the ‘most creative’ crown in each category: individual, school, group and workplace.
Just wear what you wish – most creative wins!
Visit the Wish Day competition page for entry details.
1-Mar-13: WISH DAY 2013 is on its way!
Wish Day is Make-A-Wish Australia's annual fundraising event, to raise money to help grant wishes for seriously-ill children. This year, Wish Day is on Friday 22 March 2013 and Make-A-Wish is asking everyone across Australia to support Wish Day and wear what you wish – which could mean dressing up or dressing down – to raise money for life-changing wishes.
Read the full Media Release.
8-Feb-13: Take part in Wish Day 2013!
Taking part is easy and there are heaps of fun things you can do on Wish Day itself or during the month of March to help grant life-changing wishes. Register to be part of the Wish Day fun - wear what you wish and fundraise, or simply donate to show your support!
Find out more about Wish Day!
7-Feb-13: Westpac grants a wish for Make-A-Wish
We’re delighted to announce our partnership with Westpac in WA. Westpac has provided Make-A-Wish with critical office space in Perth, which will allow us to reinvigorate operations in the state. Make-A-Wish has not held an office in Perth since October 2011, after a sudden loss of free office space.
Read the full Media Release.
24-Jan-13: Are you part of Team Wish?
Choose to participate in an organised event like a fun run, endurance challenge or bike ride, or even plan your own challenge. Whatever you choose, if you’re part of Team Wish it will be doubly rewarding!
There are hundreds of challenge events around Australia for you to join as part of Team Wish – we even have the best tickets in town with limited Gold Charity Entries for some of the most exclusive events.
Find out more about Team Wish and join us today!
21-Jan-13: Shear Wishes wins award
Congratulations to the Barossa Valley Volunteer Branch who were awarded the 2012 Eudunda Event Award (in the Australia Day Awards) for their Shear Wishes event.
The Branch will be presented with the award at the Eudunda Centenary Gardens on Saturday 26th January.
Shear Wishes was an event that saw local shearer, Mark Steinborner, shear sheep for 24 hours and raised over $40,000 for Make-A-Wish!
18-Jan-13: Wangaratta students inspired by friend's wish
A big thank you to a group of Wangaratta students who have been busy fundraising for Make-A-Wish. They were inspired after seeing first-hand the difference a wish made to their friend Jasmine - and have already raised more than $1500. What an incredible effort!
10-Jan-13: Make-A-Wish Yorke Peninsula Branch selected for Australia Day Award
Congratulations to Make-A-Wish Yorke Peninsula Volunteer Branch who were selected by their local council to receive the 2013 Australia Day Community Event of the Year Award for their Singing with the Stars event held in 2012.
The event sees local residents team up with 'celebrity' partners to compete in a singing competition, with winners determined by a combination of judges scores and audience votes.
The night was a huge success and raised over $23,000!
21-Dec-12: Art Union winners announced
The Queensland Art Union raffle was drawn on Friday 21st November 2012 at Make-A-Wish Australia’s National Office in Richmond, Victoria.
Congratulations to G. Gibson who was drawn as the winner of the Nissan Dualis Ti-L.
Congratulations also go to our early bird winners who each won a $500 Coles Group and Myer gift card:
L. Hyder, Woody Point QLD
D. Geisel, Dalby QLD
M. Murphy, Ashgrove QLD
And to the credit card purchases winners who won $100 Coles Group gift card:
C. Finch, Eight Mile Plains QLD
J. Crawford, Newtown QLD
P. Burke, Mount Sheridan QLD
T. Drake, Jimboomba QLD
M. Tyler, Wilsonton QLD
Thank you to everyone who purchased a raffle ticket in the Art Union; your purchase will help Make-A-Wish continue to grant wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions and congratulations to the above winners.
14-Dec-12: Make-A-Wish Volunteer named as Bundaberg Senior Citizen of the Year
Congratulations to Pat Russell – Bundaberg Volunteer Branch President – who has been named the winner of Bundaberg Regional Council's Australia Day Senior Citizen Award.
Pat has been a valuable Make-A-Wish volunteer for 18 years. For 16 of these years, Pat has been the Branch President, and taken on additional roles throughout this time.
Well done Pat and thank you for your amazing commitment over the years!
14-Dec-12: Media Release: Make-A-Wish® urgently needs your support this Christmas…
Christmas is a time for giving and making wishes come true. Make-A-Wish® Australia understands this better than anyone, as an organisation that is committed to granting wishes every day to children with life-threatening medical conditions.
Demand for Make-A-Wish wishes has grown significantly and is now exceeding funding. There are currently over 500 sick children around Australia waiting for their cherished wishes to be granted and Make-A-Wish is urging people to dig deep this festive season.
Read the full Media Release.
12-Dec-12: Operation Make-A-Wish
On Friday 12 October, the Australian Army took a day off from their usual schedule to raise as much money as possible for Make-A-Wish through their project, ‘Operation Make-A-Wish’.
We are excited to announce that this year the Army has raised over $15,000!
The 2nd Combat Engineer Regiment (2CER), based at the Australian Army’s Gallipoli Barracks in Enoggera, hit the streets and shopping centres around Brisbane to raise much needed funds and meet with wish children currently waiting for their wishes to be granted.
Commanding Officer of 2CER, LTCOL Paul Foura, said; "This is a wonderful community cause that we're only too happy to support. The help that we as Defence receive from our local communities, particularly assistance to our families when we're on deployment, is fantastic and this is one way we're able to show our appreciation back to the community. Make-A-Wish Australia provides some wonderful life experiences for some very special children and their families and I'm proud that our Regiment has chosen to support this charity,"
It is the third year in a row that the Army has kindly offered up their troops, with up to 70 Army personnel out in force. There were also Protected Mobility Vehicles, known as Bushmasters, in certain locations around the city for public viewing and photo opportunities.
We are extremely grateful to the Australian Army, in particular 2CER in Enoggera for giving up their time to help raise money so that Make-A-Wish can continue to grant wishes to seriously-ill children throughout Australia.
11-Dec-12: The Creation of Colour supports Make-A-Wish
New up and coming author C.L Burns and illustrator Janie Petersen from Gladstone, Australia, are delighted to announce the publication of their first book The Creation of Colour.
$1 from the sale of every copy of The Creation of Colour will be donated to Make-A-Wish Australia.
Written three years ago, Burns is very excited to finally see her book come alive. Wishing to be able to send out an inspiring message to anyone, the story is very likely to touch the reader’s heart no matter how old they are. Only 7 weeks ago Burns met the illustrator Janie Petersen, who loved every moment of creating the pictures for the book. Their aim is to encourage everyone who reads the story to embrace their individuality, and realise the potential of their dreams.
If you wish to order a copy of the book please visit: http://www.burnsandpetersen.com/the-creation-of-colour.html.
06-Dec-12: Media Release: CHAMILIA Launch
Chamilia is excited to announce the launch of an exclusive ‘Wish’ bead benefitting Make-A-Wish® this November, just in time for the festive season.
Made from sterling silver and adorned with electric blue Swarovski crystal elements, this stunning bead will evolve a current design or stand alone as a striking solitary piece on a bracelet or necklace.
Read the full Media Release.
04-Dec-12: Tannika's wish party
Four-year-old Tannika, from Western Australia, wished to have a party with her friends and family. Tannika adores everything fairy, especially the ABC show 'The Fairies'.
Initially Tannika asked to have a fairy party, but so her younger brother didn't feel left out, she asked if we could change the dress code to fairies and pirates.
Watch the video of Tannika enjoying her fairy and pirate party: http://youtu.be/1dxV6Xz97lo.
04-Dec-12: Spotted: The Cadbury Christmas Make-A-Wish range!
Thanks to our supporters on Facebook and Twitter, we've compiled a list of known stores and locations that stock the Cadbury Christmas Make-A-Wish range.
If you've had trouble finding the range in your area, have a look at the list for a store near you.
If you've found the range and we don't have the store listed, let us know! Leave us a comment on our Facebook or Twitter page!
29-Nov-12: Lifetime Distributors reaches a milestone
Over the past five years, Lifetime Distributors VIC/TAS has been supporting Make-A-Wish.
They recently presented us with a cheque for $43,500, taking the total amount they have donated to us over the past five years, to a milestone effort of more than $500,000!
Lifetime Distributors supply a selection of bestselling fiction and non-fiction books, gifts, cards, DVDs, stationery items and educational products to workplaces, with 5 cents from every book sold donated to Make-A-Wish.
We would like to send a huge thank you to Lifetime Distributors for their continued support and in helping us to grant wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions.
28-Nov-12: Register for the 2013 City2Surf
It’s that time again... time to start preparing for City2Surf!
You can join Team Wish and take part in the world’s most popular run in 2013 by registering for a Gold Entry.
Make-A-Wish has a limited number of Gold Entry places available and you can register your interest today. Registrations always fill fast for the City2Surf so make sure you don’t miss out in 2013!
Visit: http://www.realbuzz.com/groups/make-a-wish-australia/pages/city2surf-6/
22-Nov-12: Make-A-Wish Gold Coast sets World Record
Congratulations to Make-A-Wish Australia - Gold Coast Branch who set a World Record for "Longest Continuous Auction" at their recent Awesome Auction 4 Wishes event!
Auctioneer, Tony, set the record when he auctioned 400 items nonstop, over four hours!
The event raised more than $17,000 for Make-A-Wish.
View the World Record here: http://rec.st/eVLH.
17-Nov-12: Cadbury helps make wishes come true
Make-A-Wish® Australia is excited to have entered into a three year partnership with Kraft Foods via the Cadbury brand.
This year the partnership with the iconic brand will focus on the sale of four key, Christmas themed products. A portion of the sales from the Cadbury Christmas Make-A-Wish range will be donated to Make-A-Wish, with a minimum of $150,000 already committed in 2012.
Read more.
14-Nov-12: John donates BMA prize money
Each year BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) holds its annual BMA Achievement Awards to recognise excellence and share best practice.
This year, the winner of the ‘Value Respect Award’ was John Nicol-Dickson from Goonyella Riverside Mine near Moranbah in Queensland. John generously donated his $3,000 prize money to Make-A-Wish.
Thank you John and BMA – you are helping wishes to come true.
05-Nov-12: Make-A-Wish needs your help
We currently have over 500 children waiting for their wishes to be granted and we need your help.
As mentioned in an article from today’s Herald Sun, the number of wish applications has increased over the last three years, and children could be waiting up to two years before their cherished wish can be granted.
Please donate today.
29-Oct-12: Awesome Auction 4 Wishes proves a success
Make-A-Wish Australia’s Gold Coast Volunteer Branch hosted their Awesome Auction 4 Wishes event on Saturday 27 October, raising over $17,000 from the day!
The event was held at Robina Town Centre and Auctioneer, Tony, worked non-stop from 10:10am to 2:30pm, auctioning 399 items. All auction items were generously donating by local communities and we thank them for supporting this event.
Over 30 volunteers offered their assistance to help the event run smoothly and Olympic Gold medallist, Melanie Schlanger, was on-hand to assist on the day, along with Andrew Winter from Foxtel's The Lifestyle Channel.
Congratulations to everyone involved in hosting this successful event and thank you for supporting Make-A-Wish!
26-Oct-12: 'Losing Kilos for Kids' raises over $15,000
We would to congratulate Aston Fitness on organising their recent challenge ‘Losing Kilos for Kids’ which was held from August to mid October. They raised over $15,000 which will help Make-A-Wish continue to grant wishes for children and young people with life-threatening medical conditions.
Thank you to the members who participated, the trainers who were auctioned off and all the supporting donors who sponsored their friends and family. We hope everyone who participated in the challenge achieved their target weight and feel great for their achievement!
24-Oct-12: Supporting Make-A-Wish at 86
A special congratulations to Marion Thomson, who at 86 years-young, participated in her fourth Burnie Ten 10km event on Sunday 21st October in Tasmania and raised funds for Make-A-Wish.
Marion is a member of Make-A-Wish Australia's Devonport Volunteer Branch and believes her involvement will "be an incentive to people half my age to do something" for charity. If you would like to donate to Make-A-Wisn in support of Marion, please go to http://www.everydayhero.com.au/Marion_thomson.
Well done Marion!
22-Oct-12: Spring Wishing Well is now available
The 2012 Spring edition of Wishing Well is now available. Read our latest wish stories and updates from Make-A-Wish Australia and see how your support is helping to make wishes come true.
Download your copy here.
16-Oct-12: Art Union winners announced
The Queensland Art Union raffle was drawn on Friday 12th October 2012 at Make-A-Wish Australia’s National Office in Richmond, Victoria.
Congratulations to D. Grant-Frost who was drawn as the winner of the 2012 Nissan Maxima ST-L Sedan.
Congratulations also go to our early bird winners who each won a $500 Coles Group and Myer gift card:
C. Galvin, Heatley QLD
B. Jones, Browns Plains QLD
M. Waterhouse, Douglas QLD
And to the credit card purchases winners who won $100 Coles Group gift card:
F. Corsi, Innisfail QLD
M. Young, Bluewater Park QLD
H. Woodall, Goomeri QLD
D. Brewer, Moura QLD
M. Misztal, Redcliffe QLD
Thank you to everyone who purchased a raffle ticket in the Art Union; your purchase will help Make-A-Wish continue to grant wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions and congratulations to the above winners.
11-Oct-12: Media Statement: The Wish Effect!
Make-A-Wish Australia and Leo Burnett show people how powerful their social network can be in new campaign to make wishes come true.
In an effort to raise donations for the hundreds of seriously-ill children waiting for their wishes to be granted around Australia, Make-A-Wish has launched a powerful new online platform.
The Wish Effect was created by Leo Burnett Melbourne, and uses social media to demonstrate the huge effect people can have on the lives of sick kids, not just by donating, but by sharing the initiative.
Download the full media statement | View The Wish Effect site.
06-Oct-12: 400 join The Wish Effect!
Since launching on 3 October, more than 400 people have joined The Wish Effect!
The Wish Effect is an exciting new way for people around Australia to get involved in helping to make wishes come true and see what their Wish Effect could be. Simply visit www.thewisheffect.com.au to get started and see what effect you can have on the lives of children with life-threatening medical conditions.
03-Oct-12: Media Statement: The Wish Effect is here!
Make-A-Wish Australia is proud to announce the launch of The Wish Effect – a powerful new way for individuals, organisations and community groups to come together online to help grant wishes for children with life-threatening medical conditions.
The Wish Effect website showcases some of the life-changing wishes Make-A-Wish Australia grants for seriously-ill children and gives people the opportunity to contribute to part of a wish, a whole wish, or even multiple wishes. It’s an exciting new way for the people around Australia to get involved in helping to make wishes come true.
Download the full media statement | View The Wish Effect site.
24-Sept-12: Make-A-Wish chosen as charity beneficary
We are honoured to be chosen as one of the charity beneficiaries for the Freemason Victoria ‘My Fair Lady Ball’ to be held at the decadent Regent Plaza Ballroom on Saturday 23 February 2013.
Held biennially, Freemason Lodges Amicus and SEAVIC are putting on a fantastic dinner and dance with all the trimmings. Limited to 500 tickets, it will be an event not to be missed.
Sponsorship packages are available to support this wonderful event, view the sponsorship flyer for more information or book your tickets.
For more information regarding sponsorship, tickets, or to donate prizes for the auction/raffle, please contact Chrys Kypreos on 0412 333 122 or Chris Lambis on 0403 347 417.
We would like to thank Freemason Victoria for their support and look forward to an enjoyable evening.
19-Sept-12: University of Sydney fundraises for Make-A-Wish
Thank you to students from the University of Sydney who today are fundraising to help more wishes like Erin's come true.
Erin, whose wish to be a princess on her birthday, inspired these students to help more wishes come true.
18-Sept-12: Coles' Avocado Lunch
Coles celebrated its partnership with Make-A-Wish last week by hosting an avocado-inspired lunch for their employees. Staff at their National Office in Melbourne were treated to a free lunch on Friday 14th September and viewed a slideshow of wishes granted so they could see how their support is helping Make-A-Wish.
View some of the photos from the lunch on the Make-A-Wish Australia Facebook page.
14-Sept-12: Creative Memories shows its support for Make-A-Wish
Creative Memories is proud to partner with Make-A-Wish Australia for the fourth year as part of their 2012 Dream fundraising campaign. Creative Memories has developed a specially designed range of scrapbooking products exclusive to the fundraising campaign and only available through Creative Memories Consultants.
You can get involved by hosting a fundraising party for Make-A-Wish and purchasing product from the Dream range between 1 September to 30 November 2012, where a donation will be made to Make-A-Wish for each product sold.
To find a Consultant near you call 02 9472 9400 or contact Creative Memories at www.creativememories.com.au.
14-Sept-12: Canberra Volunteers host fundraising success
Congratulations to Make-A-Wish Australia's Canberra Volunteer Branch who raised $39,000 from their 2012 Spring Ball!
Thanks to the Canberra community for getting involved and helping the Branch achieve this fantastic result; we hope you all enjoyed the night.
06-Sept-12: Coles continues its support for Make-A-Wish
During September, Coles is supporting Make-A-Wish by helping to grant life-changing wishes across Australia.
Coles is donating $100,000 this year from the sale of avocados to help make a difference to children with a life-threatening medical condition at a time when they need it most. So each time you buy an avocado from Coles, not only will you be buying a pear-shaped powerhouse of goodness, but you will also help to bring joy to children with life-threatening medical conditions.
Per serving, an avocado provides nearly 20 essential nutrients, including fibre, potassium, Vitamin E, B-vitamins and folic acid. So, one way or another, when you buy avocados from Coles you’ll be making yourself - and someone else – feel better!
Get inspired with some Avocado recipes available in this month’s Coles magazine and online at www.coles.com.au/recipes.
Visit your local Coles supermarket in September to buy your avocados and help make wishes come true!
06-Sept-12: Kelly claims another medal
Young Ambassador, Kelly Cartwright, has claimed her second medal in the 2012 London Paralympics after finishing second in the 100m sprint overnight. Kelly won gold in the long jump last weekend and broke a world record with her jump of 4.38m. Congratulations Kelly, what an amazing achievement!
05-Sept-12: Media Statement: Make-A-Wish partners with Cadbury
Cadbury Australia is spreading the joy of Christmas this year through its first ever partnership with Make-A-Wish Australia.
Through the exciting new arrangement, Australians can help Cadbury and Make-A-Wish grant wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions by purchasing chocolate products from the special Cadbury Christmas Make-A-Wish range. The range includes the new Little Wishes product, which has been especially made for the partnership.
Read the full statement.
04-Sept-12: Kelly jumps for gold
Congratulations to Make-A-Wish Young Ambassador, Kelly Cartwright, who won gold in the long jump at the 2012 London Paralympics.
Kelly also broke a world record on the way to claiming gold with a jump of 4.38m, smashing her personal best by 22cm. Well done Kelly!
Read more about Kelly's incredible achievement.
Kelly next competes in the 100m sprint on Wednesday 5 September.
01-Sept-12: Go For Gold Kelly
We would like to wish our Young Ambassador, Kelly Cartwright, all the best as she competes in the F42 Long Jump and T42 100m in the London Paralympics.
At the tender age of 15, Kelly’s world was to change forever with the news she had a rare form of cancer, synovial sarcoma. Understandably, at the time Kelly felt like her world was falling apart. Within two weeks of being diagnosed with cancer Kelly was told that to survive there was only one viable option, to amputate her right leg. Kelly's first reaction was “No way”. However upon realising this was the best option for her survival she reluctantly agreed.
Following her holiday to Thailand, which Make-A-Wish granted, Kelly’s frame of mind improved and she began to look positively towards the future. Today, Kelly is a world record holder in the Long Jump and past gold medallist in the 100m.
22-Aug-12: Art auction underway
An auction is currently underway for artwork from emerging Adelaide Artist, Russell Freer. The piece, fittingly titled ‘Make a wish’, is open to bids via the online Facebook auction until Sunday August 26 at 8:30pm (AEST). View the artwork and place a bid for your chance to own this piece of art. Funds raised will be donated to Make-A-Wish Australia. http://on.fb.me/NHuLmC
16-Aug-12: 'Wishes Raceday' helps Make-A-Wish
Following the Wishes Raceday Luncheon held by Moonee Valley Racing Club, we are excited to announce that over $31,000 has been raised from the event. A huge thankyou to Moonee Valley (and of course Emily, who helped set this partnership up) and to everyone who attended the day.
The luncheon was held on Saturday 4 August 2012, in the Moonee Valley Committee Room and featured guest speakers, lunch, beverage package, entertainment, racecourse entry, race book and not to mention spectacular views of the racecourse and the Melbourne city skyline.
What an amazing result! Thanks again Moonee Valley and Emily.
14-Aug-12: Thank you to our fundraisers
A huge thank you and congratulations to our 110+ runners who competed in the City2Surf on Sunday 12 August. We will announce how much has been raised over the next week, so it's not too late to ask your friends and family for one final donation, now that you have completed the race.
If you have any photos from the day, we would love to see them! Share them on our Facebook wall or email events@makeawish.org.au.
09-Aug-12: Help Make-A-Wish win outdoor advertising
Make-A-Wish Australia is in the running to win $10,000 worth of outdoor advertising, thanks to ITEL Media in Motion.
You can vote for us here: http://bit.ly/NohLTu.
Don't forget to share the link with your friends on Facebook so they can vote too!
The competition closes Wednesday 5 September 2012.
08-Aug-12: Darren finds inspiration from his son
In September 2008, 14-year-old Kallan was diagnosed with osteosarcoma; an aggressive form of bone cancer. Following nine months of chemotherapy and a major operation to remove the tumour and replace the humorous bone with a prosthetic bone, Kallan’s wish, to go on a family holiday, came true.
Following this Make-A-Wish experience, his dad Darren has decided to participate in this year’s The Sun-Herald City2Surf and fundraise for Make-A-Wish.
Darren explains:
“To experience this ordeal with Kallan and watch him every step of the way (through his treatment) was nothing short of inspirational. He and many kids like him have a resilience that has to been seen to be believed.
Watching what my son and other kids go through just to stay alive makes running 14km seem like child’s play.
Running 14km is something well within my capabilities and while I’m at it I am determined to raise as much money and awareness for Make-A-Wish as I can.
The people at Make–A-Wish understand that throughout months of treatment, these kids are often left with some not too pleasant memories. It's wishes like the one granted to my son that make it all seem worthwhile.
I can’t thank Make-A-Wish Australia enough for what they provided Kallan - there is no way I could ever pay them back. The best way for me to give back is to put every bit of effort I have into this year’s City2Surf. All going well, my efforts might just make one more child’s wish come true. If that happens.... well a happier man you will not find.”
You can support Darren in his fundraising efforts by making a donation through his fundraising page: http://www.fundraise.city2surf.com.au/darren_egar_0.
02-Aug-12: Portland Branch reaches new goals
It took eight days, over 350kms and plenty of blisters, but the Portland Branch of Make-A-Wish Australia has completed its fourth annual One Big Red Money Walk For Wishes, walking from Melbourne to Portland to raise money and awareness.
Donations are still coming in, but the Branch has already doubled last year’s fundraising total.
Thank you to everyone involved in this year’s walk – we can’t wait to see what you achieve next year!
30-Jul-12: CPA names Make-A-Wish for their Big Break Project
Make-A-Wish Australia has been chosen as the subject for The CPA Big Break Project 2012.
CPA Australia, one of the world’s largest accounting bodies, challenges undergraduates to get a head-start in their careers with The CPA Big Break Project.
Now in its third year, The CPA Big Break Project gives undergraduates in Australia and New Zealand a unique opportunity to tackle a real business problem for a not-for-profit organisation. Make-A-Wish CEO, Vici Funnell, is excited to be involved in this year’s project, commenting: “To have the support of CPA Australia is fantastic. We always welcome fresh ideas and we are really looking forward to hearing from students on interesting ways we can increase funds to help us make more wishes come true.”
27-Jul-12: Media Statement: Make-A-Wish Ambassador, Fraser Ross, kicks off his new role
Make-A-Wish® Australia is proud to announce the appointment of Australian Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge, Racing Car Driver, Fraser Ross, as our newest official Ambassador.
Fraser will be swapping his racing suit for a tuxedo at the Make-A-Wish® Melbourne Volunteer Branch Gala Ball when he reports to duty for the first time as an official Ambassador for this inspirational children’s charity.
Read the full statement.
24-Jul-12: Portland's One Big Red Money Walk
The Portland Branch of Make-A-Wish start their eight-day walk from Melbourne to Portland. The walk, named 'One Big Red Money Walk For Wishes', was inspired by a four-year-old child diagnosed with a brain tumor, whose wish was for "one big red money (a $20 note)" to go shopping with. The walk is now in its fourth year and goes for more than 350km.
Collingwood Football Club again lended their support to the Portland Branch. Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley and captain, Nick Maxwell, presented Portland Branch President, Gail, with a cheque on behalf of Lexus of Blackburn. The team then took to the track to walk with the Portland volunteers for the first part of their walk.
You can follow their progress on Facebook and show your support by donating today.
23-Jul-12: Team Wish participants raise over $12,000 following Run Melbourne
Team Wish participants who took part in The Age Run Melbourne on Sunday 15 July have raised over $12,000 to help grant wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions.
Our youngest participant on the day, nine-year-old Sebastian, is also our highest fundraiser, raising almost $4,000.
Thank you to everyone who joined Team Wish in The Age Run Melbourne.
20-Jul-12: Media Statement: A wish to meet Justin Bieber comes true thanks to Make-A-Wish
For three very excited young girls, the chance to meet their idol Justin Bieber was something they'd always wished for but never thought in their wildest dreams would ever happen. But thanks to Make-A-Wish Australia, Megan, Jet and Ellie's most cherished wish came true when they came face-to-face with Bieber himself at a private meet and greet in Sydney.
Read the full statement.
19-Jul-12: Make-A-Wish Launceston Volunteers recognised for their support
The Launceston Branch was recently presented with an Outstanding Achievement Award (in the category of Community, Health and Education) by the Launceston City Council, as part of the Council’s 2012 Volunteer Recognition Awards.
The award recognises the Branch for its contribution to the community and is acknowledgment of the volunteers’ dedication. Well done Launceston!
18-Jul-12: Fraser Ross joins as Make-A-Wish Ambassador
We are pleased to welcome GT3 Cup Racing Driver, Fraser Ross, as one of our newest Make-A-Wish Ambassadors.
Fraser met with James to provide a wish enhancement, where he took James on a hot lap around Sydney Motorsport Park.
James recently received his wish (to go on a holiday to Vanuatu) and loved the opportunity to meet Fraser and experience a hot lap with him.
17-Jul-12: Rex becomes a fireman for the day
As Rex got ready for school this morning, he was completely unaware of what was waiting for him as the schoolbell rang... His wish to become a fireman was about to come true and in a show of community spirit, it was a day he will remember for a long time.
Read Rex's story.
12-Jul-12: An update on annual tax receipts
We are currently in the process of producing an annual tax receipt for individuals and organisations who have generously contributed gifts and regular donations throughout the 2011/12 financial year.
All donations $2 and over are tax-deductable and receipts for these donations will be sent out from 19 July 2012. If you made a one-off donation, you would have received your receipt in the post shortly after your donation was made, however if you would like a copy of this receipt, please call us on 1800 032 260.
If you have changed your address, please contact our Supporter Care and Engagement Team on 1800 032 260 to confirm your details so we can update our records and send your receipt to the correct address.
If you have not received your annual tax receipt by the end of July, please contact us on 1800 032 260 or email supporterfeedback@makeawish.org.au.
Thank you to all our supporters for your generous support. Your kind gifts during the 2011/12 financial year has helped grant hundreds of amazing wishes to children battling life-threatening medical conditions, providing them with hope, strength and joy during a most difficult time. Thank you.
12-Jul-12: Media Statement: Mark Visser appointed as Make-A-Wish Ambassador
Big wave surfer and adventure athlete, Mark Visser, has joined the Make-A-Wish Team as our newest Ambassador.
Mark approached Make-A-Wish to become an Ambassador as he felt it was the perfect charity for him to support and could relate to the importance of giving children with life-threatening medical conditions hope, strength and joy when they need it most.
Read the full statement.
11-Jul-12: Genesis celebrates its birthday by supporting Make-A-Wish
Genesis Fitness Clubs has again partnered with Make-A-Wish, following their successful campaign in 2011 which raised $33,000. This is the second year Genesis has supported Make-A-Wish and have set their sights on smashing last year’s fundraising achievements.
Genesis, in celebrating their 18th birthday, will be donating 100% of new memberships fees during July, as well as offering existing members the opportunity to purchase a $10 10-visit pass for a friend, with 100% of the purchase price donated to Make-A-Wish as well.
Head to your local Genesis gym, get fit and help make wishes come true.
10-Jul-12: Moonee Valley Racing hosts Wishes Raceday Luncheon
It’s time to frock up! Racing at the Valley resumes next month, so come and celebrate the 2012/13 season in style.
Join Moonee Valley Racing Club Saturday 4 August at the Wishes Raceday Luncheon and support Make-A-Wish Australia.
$50 from every ticket sold will be donated to us, so get your tickets now: http://bit.ly/J053Hr.
09-Jul-12: Bundaberg reaches milestone
Congratulations to the Bundaberg Volunteer Branch – they granted their 100th wish to four-year-old Tyler on the weekend.
Tyler loves all things fish and orange, so his wish to have an aquarium was a perfect fit for this youngster, whose eyes light up at any mention of fish.
06-Jul-12: Join Team Wish in The Age Run Melbourne
Just over 1 week until The Age Run Melbourne... Have you signed up to run in Team Wish? Walk or run 5km, 10km or challenge yourself to a half marathon.
Sebastian Dobbs is just 9 years of age and is exceeding his target in leaps and bounds, having raised over $2,300 so far - great work Sebastian!
To join in the fun or make a donation to the Team, please go to http://runmelbourne.everydayhero.com.au/team_wish_run_melbourne.
Click here to read past news from January to June 2012.