Kindness Report for Sport

A celebration of the Australian sporting community that inspires memorable moments of hope and joy for wish kids and their families through the spirit of camaraderie, inclusiveness, and fun

Sporting clubs and sports stars are a vital part of the Australian community, and their support is invaluable to the hundreds of wish kids who rely on Make-A-Wish to grant their wishes each and every year.

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.

AFL

A massive thanks to the AFL and all the clubs—your legendary support helped us kick 9 spectacular life-changing goals for our wish kids. 🏆

⭐ I wish to be a part of the Essendon Football team for a match
🎦 Watch here: Essendon Football Wish Video

⭐ I wish to meet Hawthorn Football club and attend a home game
🎦 Watch here: Hawthorn Football Wish Video

⭐ I wish to meet Collingwood Football Club's captain Darcy Moore and run through the banner with him on the MCG
🎦 Watch here: Collingwood Football Wish Video

⭐ I wish to have a fun packed weekend that includes meeting Max King and the St Kilda Football team
🎦 Watch here: St Kilda Football Wish Video

⭐ I wish to run through the banner with Jordan De Goey and meet the Collingwood football team
📰 Read about it here: Collingwood Football Wish

⭐ I wish to attend the AFL Grand Final

⭐ I wish to meet my favorite Geelong player Jeremy Cameron

📣 MEDIA SHOUT OUT

7AFL Commentary & Production Team

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

📣 SHOUT OUT TO

The Walt Disney Company, Marvel Stadium, AFL & Western Bulldogs

We express our gratitude to The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand, Marvel Stadium, The AFL, and the Western Bulldogs for granting six-year-old Viker’s wish to have an epic adventure with his hero Spider-Man. Viker ended up saving the day by recusing a beloved mascot - just in time for the big game between the Western Bulldogs and North Melbourne.

⭐ I wish to go on a Spider-Man adventure and save the day
🎦 Watch & read here: Viker's Web-slinging Adventure Wish

Basketball

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

It’s given him something to focus on, away from the hard times he’s been through. It’s offered some happiness and let him feel good about himself.

Emily, wish mum

Cricket

A big shoutout to our friends at Cricket Australia, Cricket India, and the incredible men’s and women’s teams for knocking it out of the park and helping deliver four life-changing wishes. 🏏

⭐ I wish to have a special cricket experience and see my favorite players up close
🎦 Watch here: Australian Men's Cricket Team Wish Video

⭐ I wish to have a VIP experience at the Australian International Women's Ashes Test match and meet Ellyse Perry
🎦 Watch here: Cricket Australia Wish Video

⭐ I wish to meet the Indian cricket team and get a Jersey signed by his favorite player Virat Kholi

⭐ I wish to meet the Australian Cricket Team and watch a Boxing Day test

The record breakers and attempts

Extreme Sport Fundraisers

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

📣 SHOUT OUT TO

Fundraising Champions

The Altona Sports Club for your ongoing support over the past 4 years, raising an incredible $42,000 at our most recent event.

⭐ Longtime partners Dance Aid for being such wonderful supporters over the last 11 years, raising $21,000 most recently.

⭐ All the wonderful fundraisers who participated in Ride for Wish Kids, travelling over 34,000km and raising $47,000, and our fantastic partners Bikes Online.

📣 MEDIA SHOUT OUT

Sean Bell's Media Support

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 ->

6PR
For giving Perth listeners a glimpse of Sean’s 7,000km milestone in WA, more than halfway through his inspiring journey.
🎧 Listen to the interview here

7 Sunrise
For sharing his story with a national audience and celebrating his incredible record-breaking moment.

9 News
For following Sean’s progress around Australia, from Darwin to Brisbane and beyond.
🎦 Watch here

10 News First
For capturing Sean’s unforgettable finish at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and spotlighting his determination.
🎦 Watch here

Canberra CityNews
For highlighting Sean’s next chapter and his plans to keep running—even after 13,000+km.
📰 Read Melissa Woods’ story here

Herald Sun
For chronicling his earlier 4,000km Cairns-to-Ringwood run and sharing the momentum behind his mission.
📰 Read Dan Batten’s story here

Men’s Health Australia
For their in-depth feature exploring Sean’s motivation and mindset as he took on this epic challenge.
📰 Read Cayle Reid’s story here

SEN 1170 with Matt White
For showcasing Sean’s reflections and the powerful ‘why’ behind his run.

Sydney Morning Herald
For sharing Sean’s relentless dedication to run around Australia as he overcomes physical challenges to make it to the finish line.
📰 Read Sarah Berry’s story here

Triple M’s Rush Hour with JB & Billy
For offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the emotional and physical toll of the journey.

The West Australian, The Courier Mail, and The North West Star
For covering his journey across state lines; helping to build national recognition for Sean’s cause.
📰 Read stories here: The West Australian by Caleb Runciman | Courier Mail by Lachlan McKirdy | The North West Star by Melissa Woods

📣 SHOUT OUT TO

Cody Weightman

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.

📣 MEDIA SHOUT OUT

Talking Footy, Channel 7

A big thank you to the Talking Footy team for spotlighting Cody Weightman’s support of Make-A-Wish during your segment with him.

In a powerful and down-to-earth chat, Cody opened up about why the cause matters to him, sharing heartfelt reflections that helped shine a light on the real impact of wishes.

It was a brilliant example of how sport and storytelling can come together to amplify kindness and community. Thanks for helping us share that message with a wider audience.

When wishes come true, it's proof to every child that they can do anything they set their minds to. This is what my run is all about.

Sean Bell, Make-A-Wish Ambassador

Football Australia

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

Formula 1®

Make-A-Wish is proud to be a charity supported by F1®. Through this collaboration, alongside the Australian Grand Prix™, nine incredible wish recipients from across Australia had their greatest wishes cross the finish line. 🏁

⭐ FORMULA 1 LOUIS VUITTON AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX 2025
🎦 Watch here: Australian Grand Prix™ Wrap-up Wish Video

⭐ I wish to go behind the scenes at the Australian Grand Prix™
📰 Read about it here: A future engineer's dream

⭐ I wish to attend the Australian Grand Prix™ with my family and meet the Red Bull team
🎦 Watch here: A wish child reflects on his F1® Wish

⭐ I wish to go to the Australian Grand Prix™ and meet some of my favourite drivers
📰 Read about it here: Music & Motorsport Wish

⭐ I wish to go behind the scenes at the Australian Grand Prix™

⭐ I wish to meet Max Verstappen at the Australian Grand Prix™

⭐ I wish to experience the Australian Grand Prix™with my family

⭐ I wish to go to the Australian Grand Prix™with my mates and watch the race in style

⭐ I wish to have a VIP experience at the Australian Grand Prix™

📣 MEDIA SHOUT OUT

9News Melbourne

A huge thank you to 9News Melbourne for their brilliant coverage of Jett’s unforgettable Formula 1® 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 F1® Experience Wish

Golf

We are grateful to Golf Australia and all the businesses that hosted Golf Day fundraisers to help make as many wishes land on the green as possible. ⛳

⭐ I wish to go to the Golf Australian Open
📰 Read about it here: Australian Open Golf Wish

Golf Day Fundraisers

Blooms The Chemist Golf Day
For the 7th consecutive year, Major Partner Blooms The Chemist teed up for their Golf Day, raising over $60,000 in support of critically ill kids.

Photo: Blooms The Chemist Golf Day

Casey Partners Golf Day
Casey Partners and our local Cardinia-Casey Volunteer Branch raised a record-breaking amount of over $65,000. This wonderful community event has been running for 28 years.
📰 Read about it here: Casey Partners Annual Golf Day

digiDirect Golf Day
Thank you for picking us as one of your Golf Day charities in 2025, with $25,000 raised for critically ill kids.

Essendon Fields King Island Classic hosted by Air Adventure
Now in its 8th year, over 92 Golfers came together and raised over $32,000.
🎦 Watch here: The 8th Essendon Fields King Island Golf Classic

Facey Property Golf Day
Celebrating 30 years, the annual Facey Property Golf Day is another golfing tradition supported by our local Cardinia-Casey Volunteer Branch. Thank you to everyone who participated in helping raise over $32,000.

Mission Critical Partner, Hungry Jack's Wishmaker Golf Day
Over 100 incredible Hungry Jack's team members, partners, and suppliers came together at this inaugural Golf Day to launch Wishmaker for 2025. Over $70,000 raised on the day.

Photo: Mission Critical Partner, Hungry Jack's Golf Day

📣 SPECIAL THANKS TO

Hungry Jack's, Mission Critical Partner

Thank you to the mighty Adelaide Crows, West Coast Eagles, and incredible NBL for waving a scarf and delivering the ultimate assists in support of the 2025 Hungry Jack's | Make-A-Wish Wishmaker campaign.

Motorsport

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

NRL

Big thanks to the NRL for scrumming together to help turn tough tackles into triumphant tries for sick kids and their families. 🏉

📣 MEDIA SHOUT OUT

The Courier-Mail

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

📣 MEDIA SHOUT OUT

Maitland Mercury

A shout out to Sage Swinton from the Maitland Mercury for the fantastic coverage of Luke’s NRL Grand Final wish.

Sage shared Luke’s story with care and heart—shining a light on his medical journey and the unforgettable VIP experience he had in Sydney. It was a beautiful piece that captured not just the excitement of the event, but the deeper meaning behind it.

Thanks for helping spread such a powerful and uplifting story.

⭐ I wish to have a special VIP experience at the NRL Grand Final
🎦 Watch here: Luke's NRL Grand Final Wish Video

Pickleball

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 $15,000. 🏆

Skateboarding

To the amazing skateboarding community, thank you for kick-flipping the script on children affected by critical illness and empowering them to coast towards hope and joy. 🛹

⭐ I wish to hang out with my favourite skateboarders
🎦 Watch & read here: SLS Championship Wish

I spent the last two years in and out of hospital for cancer treatment. So to be able to take a flight, stay with my family, go on a trip, forget about everything, and just have fun—it felt so amazing.

Kevin, wish kid

Tennis

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

UFC

From weigh-in to wish day, the legends in Perth didn't pull any punches when it came to making these three Ultimate Fighting Championship wishes come true. 🥊 Thanks to all involved for ensuring that each wish had its Main Event moment!

⭐ I wish to attend a UFC event

⭐ I wish to go to the UFC in Australia

⭐ I wish to have the ultimate UFC Experience

📣 SPECIAL THANKS TO

X Factor Sponsors

Last, but certainly not least, our appreciation to Hyundai Help for Kids, for hosting an amazing iView experience for the Easter clash between Brisbane V Collingwood at the Gabba for Noah and his friends.

And, to every other sporting fan around the country and the many unsung heroes and clubs who have helped along the way - thank you to each and every one of you for believing in the power of a once-in-a-lifetime sporting wish. We are so pleased to have you as part of our Wish Force. ⭐

Wish kids featured on this page

⭐ Caleb, 6, rhabdomyosarcoma, 'I wish to have a special cricket experience and see my favorite players up close'

⭐ Charlotte, 14, cystic fibrosis, 'I wish to hang out with my favourite skateboarders'

⭐ Karter, 9, cerebral palsy, 'I wish to be a part of the Essendon Footy Team for a match'

⭐ Adam, 18, cystic fibrosis, 'I wish to be in the commentary box for an AFL game when the Swans are playing'

⭐ Viker, 6, brain tumour, 'I wish to go on a Spider-Man Adventure and save the day'

⭐ Thomas, 9, complex cardiac disease, 'I wish to have a basketball experience and meet one of my idols from the NBA'

⭐ Giann, 17, acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, 'I wish to have a VIP experience at the Australian International Women's Ashes Test match and meet Ellyse Perry'

⭐ Brayden, 9, acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, 'I wish to have a VIP Sydney Football Club experience'

⭐ Kevin, 17, metastatic malignant histiocytic sarcoma, 'I wish to attend the Australian Grand Prix™ with my family and meet the Red Bull team'

⭐ Jett, 12, leukaemia, 'I wish to be a VIP at the Australian Grand Prix™'

⭐ Mihalis, 10, hypoplastic right heart syndrome, 'I wish to go to the 2024 ISPS HANDA Australian Open golf'

⭐ Mason, 8, cystic fibrosis, 'I wish to have a VIP experience at a State of Origin game to watch Queensland'

⭐ Luke, 10, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, 'I wish to have a special VIP experience at the NRL Grand Final'

⭐ Rydah, 13, acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, 'I wish to attend the Australian Open and Meet a Professional Tennis Player'

⭐ Giacomo, 16, Hodgkin lymphoma, 'I wish to Have the Ultimate UFC Experience'

⭐ Noah, 14, cystic fibrosis, 'I wish to attend the AFL Grand Final in Melbourne'