UPDATE: Western Australia has shattered fundraising records with an astounding total of $90,160,275 raised during Telethon 2025, just announced after an electrifying weekend of community spirit and generosity. This marks a new high, surpassing last year’s total of $83,264,216, and brings the cumulative fundraising since Telethon’s inception in 1968 to over $750 million.
The Telethon event, which took place from October 21-22, rallied the WA community around a vital cause: improving the lives of sick, vulnerable, and disadvantaged children. Telethon chairman Richard Goyder praised the community’s unwavering support, stating, “Every dollar that this amazing community contributes goes to the people who need it in Western Australia.”
The event concluded with a monumental donation of $5 million from Kerry Stokes and his wife Christine Simpson-Stokes. Stokes emphasized the immediate impact of the funds, stating, “Come tomorrow morning at 9 o’clock, Telethon will be committed to implementing all the programs you’ve seen, to help all the people who need help.”
Throughout the 26-hour broadcast, heartwarming stories emerged, including that of five-year-old Izzy Miller, who expressed joy over her new backyard created by the Build Now Foundation while undergoing treatment for neuroblastoma. Emotional moments resonated as viewers connected with stories of resilience, such as that of Hemi Andrews, a five-year-old boy who has endured six open-heart surgeries.
Significant contributions poured in from local businesses and government entities, including $5.5 million from BHP, $5.5 million from Rio Tinto, and $6 million from the Federal Government, as announced by Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles. The State Government also played a crucial role with a record contribution of $14 million, pushing the total beyond last year’s figures.
WA Premier Roger Cook declared the achievement a collective triumph, stating, “There’s just a general vibe in the community that everyone’s going to get on board. There is nothing like this in Australia, and for this form of fundraising, this is the biggest in the world.”
In a touching display of unity, the Telethon home, a four-bedroom residence in Madora Bay, sold for $1.375 million, with contributions from Home Group and Satterley bringing the total to $1.4 million. This year’s event highlighted the profound impact Telethon has on the lives of countless families in WA.
The heartwarming experiences shared by families throughout the event showcased the power of community support. Taryn Blair, mother of Telethon star Jordan Blair, expressed her gratitude for the joy and recognition their family received. “Having people stop and want to take photos of Jordan and give him presents… I’ve had a permanent smile on my face all weekend,” she shared.
As Telethon 2025 wraps up, the WA community remains united in its commitment to change lives. The next steps include implementing programs funded by this record-breaking amount, ensuring that the spirit of hope and compassion continues to thrive.
Stay tuned for further developments as Telethon 2025’s impact unfolds across Western Australia, transforming the lives of many brave children and their families.
