An iconic part of Australian culture, the Bunnings sausage sizzle is more than just a weekend treat—it’s a vital fundraising tool for community groups across the nation. However, the cost of hosting one of these beloved events can be surprisingly steep. Kirsten Witney, a P&C president at a primary school in Perth, Western Australia, recently shared insights into the financial realities of organizing a Bunnings sausage sizzle, revealing that it costs her school approximately $1,020 to set up.
The revelation came through a TikTok video where Witney detailed the expenses involved in hosting the event. While Bunnings provides the essential equipment like the BBQ, gas bottle, table, and gazebo, the consumables—sausages, buns, and drinks—are not included, and these can add up quickly.
The Breakdown of Costs
Witney explained that the bulk of the expenses go towards the primary consumables. “You’re looking at $350 on sausages, $350 on buns, $230 for drinks, and $140 for other necessities like ice and condiments,” she noted. This totals to $1,020, a significant sum for many small community groups or schools starting out.
“If you don’t have that money behind you, if you’re starting out as an organization, you couldn’t do it,” Witney stated.
Despite the high initial outlay, the potential profits make it a worthwhile endeavor. With a set price of $3.50 per sausage sizzle, and a profit margin of approximately $2.50 per sausage, Witney’s group managed to make nearly $2,500 in profit each day, including drink sales.
Community Support and Challenges
To mitigate costs, Witney’s school relies on donations from parents and local businesses. “We start by getting donations of things like onions, sauce, and napkins from the school parents,” she explained. “If people can’t volunteer on the day, it’s their way of contributing in a different way.”
However, securing donations from larger retailers like Coles and Woolworths can be challenging. “We always ask for any deals or donations but rarely get anything,” Witney mentioned. “There are so many schools and community groups all attending the same Woolies [and Coles] that every man and his dog will be asking.”
“We are fortunate to get the odd donation. Woolies gave us a $50 gift card once, but it’s usually a no,” she added.
In some instances, local businesses step in to support. At their last event, a local butcher donated 200 sausages, a generous contribution that not all groups can count on.
The Impact of Fundraising
The funds raised from these sausage sizzles play a crucial role in bridging the gap between government funding and the actual needs of the school. “We raised $28,000 last year,” Witney shared. “That’s gone into maths and literacy resources, outdoor play resources, and things like interschool shirts and choir uniforms.”
For many community groups, the Bunnings sausage sizzle is not just a fundraising event but a community-building exercise. It brings people together, fosters a sense of camaraderie, and provides an opportunity for people to contribute to causes they care about.
“We’ve had people just come up and give us $10 and say they don’t want anything,” commented Witney, highlighting the generosity of the community.
Looking Ahead
As community groups continue to rely on these events for fundraising, the challenge remains in balancing the costs with the potential profits. Witney’s experience underscores the importance of community support and strategic planning in making these events successful.
For those considering hosting a Bunnings sausage sizzle, understanding the financial commitment and potential challenges is crucial. With the right preparation and community backing, these events can continue to be a staple of Australian culture and a lifeline for community fundraising.
