Paddles with Purpose

Twelve top brands and agencies face off in the inaugural Pickleball for Wishes tournament, the first official activation under a new partnership between Make-A-Wish® Australia and the National Pickleball League (NPL)

Pickles fill The Jar

Held at The Jar in South Melbourne, the event brought together a cross-industry line-up of teams who all united in support of children with critical illnesses. This included teams from:

ahm
ANZ
Austbrokers
Dashing
HACER Group
Hyundai Help for Kids
Moose Toys
Square Peg

Many teams took part through their organisation's Corporate Volunteering Program, combining purpose with play to deliver meaningful community impact.

A massive thank you to the NPL, The Jar, and all the corporate teams who raised over $19,000 to help Make-A-Wish grant more life-changing wishes for seriously ill children across Australia.

An afternoon seasoned with fun

Hosted by comedian and Pickleball Player Ash Williams, the day featured fast-paced rallies, giveaways, a live DJ, and plenty of team spirit – all in support of Make-A-Wish’s mission to bring hope and joy to critically ill children when they need it most.

A message from Sally

Sally Bateman, CEO of Make-A-Wish Australia, said:

"Pickleball For Wishes was a perfect example of what happens when community, creativity, and cause come together. We’re so grateful to our partners NPL and to every team that took to the court to help make more wishes possible."

A message from Ron

Ron Shell, CEO of the National Pickleball League, added:

“We’re thrilled to see Pickleball being used as a platform for good. This event brought together incredible energy, great competition, and a shared commitment to something bigger than the game. It’s the kind of activation that shows how sport and purpose can go hand in hand.”

Interested in corporate volunteering?

Demonstrate your commitment to corporate social responsibility and enhance your company's reputation by partnering with Make-A-Wish.

Register for our annual Trees of Joy Christmas Event by clicking the button below.

Or contact our Fundraising Team by emailing fundraising@makeawish.org.au for a friendly conversation on how we can help bring hope and joy to sick kids together, while offering your employees a rewarding opportunity to give back to the community.