Kindness Report for Sport

The very first Make-A-Wish Kindness Report for Sport is a celebration of the Australian sporting community and the amazing people, clubs, corporates, media outlets, and unsung heroes who have come together to support critically ill kids and their families during the 2024/25 Financial Year.

This is our thank you to all those amazing people who have helped make a difference in the lives of critically ill children and their families, and to everyone who loves their sport.

Together we are changing lives, one wish at a time. ⭐

A huge thank you to 7AFL team - Alister Nicholson, Abbey Holmes, Brian Taylor, Cameron Ling, Matthew Richardson, and Nick Riewoldt for making Adam’s wish something truly unforgettable. And a special shout out to Emma, Sarah, and Theo, plus the amazing production team behind the scenes too.

As an 18-year-old aspiring footy commentator living with cystic fibrosis, Adam was welcomed into the commentary box to meet his heroes and get a taste of life behind the mic.

With thoughtful encouragement, expert insight, and genuine warmth, the team gave Adam the kind of experience that will stay with him forever.

⭐ I wish to be in the commentary box for an AFL game when the Swans are playing
🎦 Watch here: Adam's AFL Commentary Wish Video

To everyone at Basketball Australia and the Boomers, thank you for stepping up to the court and helping to make this wish a slam dunk. 🏀 You really nailed the assist!

⭐ I wish to have a basketball experience and meet one of my idols from the NBA
🎦 Watch here: Basketball Australia Wish Video

To every fundraising legend who chased world records and pushed themselves to the extreme, thank you for going the distance, and then some! 👟

⭐ Ed Mason's Breathtaking Swim
Ed Mason swam an unbelievable 40.2km across Lake Taupo in 14 hours and 34 minutes—battling exhaustion, freezing temperatures, and “swim shoulder” pain. He raised $2,893 to bring joy to children who need it most.

⭐ Luke Thompson's Mowing Mission
Luke took on an extraordinary challenge—attempting to break the Guinness World Record for the farthest lawn mower push in 24 hours! Under the Wagga heat, pushing through exhaustion and pain, he covered an incredible 141.3km. He raised over $8,000, proving that perseverance and heart can change lives. Massive thank you to ABC Riverina for being part of Luke’s amazing feat!
📰 Read about it here: Luke attempts farthest lawn mower push

⭐ Noosa Triathlon
📰 Learn more here: Noosa Triathlon 2025

⭐ Sean Bell's record-breaking run around Australia
📰 Read about it here: Sean Bell breaks world record

In 2024, Sean Bell made history. Running 13,383km around Australia over 158 days, he set a new world record while raising more than $177,000 for Make-A-Wish® Australia. His journey was one of endurance, generosity, and hope—and it was amplified by the unwavering support of the Australian media.

We would like to sincerely thank the following media outlets for helping tell Sean’s story and inspiring countless others along the way ->

A massive thank you to Cody Weightman (Western Bulldogs) for going above and beyond to support Make-A-Wish Australia. In 2024, Cody showcased his artistic talents by launching the Beyond The Game exhibition in Fitzroy, featuring his own artwork alongside pieces from fellow AFL and AFLW players. The event wasn't just about art—it was a heartfelt initiative, with proceeds from the silent auction donated to Make-A-Wish, helping to grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.

Cody's commitment didn't stop there. Teaming up with his brother Jake, a dedicated Make-A-Wish volunteer, and DS Sports, he co-hosted a fundraiser that brought together AFL players and fans, raising additional funds to support the cause.

Cody, your creativity, generosity, and dedication have made a significant impact. Thank you for using your platform to bring hope and joy to so many.

Our gratitude to the Sydney Football Club for going top bins and granting a wish that was a real hat-trick of hope, joy, and lifelong memories. ⚽

⭐ I wish to have a VIP Sydney Football Club experience
🎦 Watch here: Sydney FC Wish Video

A huge thank you to 9News Melbourne for their brilliant coverage of Jett’s unforgettable Australian Grand Prix™ wish!

Jett, 12, has been through a lot—leukaemia treatment and a life-threatening sepsis infection—but came out the other side stronger than ever. His wish took him behind the scenes at the Australian Grand Prix™, with Paddock access, a garage tour, and even a fist bump from Carlos Sainz.

9News captured all the joy, excitement, and emotion of the day, helping to share Jett’s incredible story with the wider community. We’re so grateful for the support.

⭐ I wish to be a VIP at the Australian Grand Prix™
📰 Read about it here: Jett's VIP Grand Prix™ experience wish

Thanks to the World Supercross team for revving up the joy and helping to make this super wish come true. 💨

⭐ I wish to go to the World Supercross Australian GP for a week in Perth with my family

To The Courier-Mail and journalist Georgia Clelland, thank you for shining a light on Mason’s unforgettable wish.

Featured on the eve of State of Origin, the piece captured the heart of his day with the Maroons, from walking onto the field to chatting with Cam Munster. It was a joy to see it shared with readers across Queensland.

⭐ I wish to have a VIP experience at a State of Origin game to watch Queensland
📰 Read about it here: Mason's QLD Maroons Wish

Big thanks to official partner, the National Pickleball League for hosting the inaugural Pickleball For Wishes event at The Jar and for donating 5% of all court hire during May 2025.

A big shout out to our 12 corporates who played to win, raising over $19,000. 🏆

Big 'love' to the Australian Open and Tennis Australia for serving up this life-changing wish—you really aced it! 🎾

⭐ I wish to attend the Australian Open and meet a professional tennis player
📰 Read about it here: Tennis Australia Wish