Joondalup Bunnings fires up the barbie for Telethon as WA rallies behind sick kids

Tens-of-thousands of West Aussies traded their usual Saturday breakfast and lunch plans for an important weekend tradition as Bunnings store across the State fired up their barbecues to raise money for Channel 7’s 59th Telethon .

Under picture perfect spring skies, Bunnings Joondalup was among 38 stores across Western Australia hosting the state-wide sausage sizzle on Saturday, with snags, endless family entertainment and generous donations helping support sick, vulnerable and disadvantaged children.

Part of the car park at Joondalup turned into a massive family-friendly fundraiser, with a petting zoo, face painting, lucky dips, lion dancers, fire trucks and even axe throwing drawing crowds and donation dollars throughout the day.

Even Doug the dog from PetO Joondalup arrived to lend a helping paw, serving up snags and taking donations from customers.

All proceeds from the sales of $3.50 hot dogs and $2 drinks, along with the many generous donations made at the Bunnings BBQ marquees through the day, go to Telethon to fund vital medical research, equipment and services for children across WA.

There was plenty of other ways for visitors to support the cause, including Bunnings-themed lucky dips for both children and adults courtesy of Joondalup Women’s Shed volunteers.

The fundraiser, which ran between 8am and 4pm on Saturday, is a popular part of Telethon’s annual weekend of giving and comes ahead of the 26-hour live television broadcast that commences at 7pm on Channel 7 and 7plus .

Last year’s Bunnings BBQ raised $102,000 and hopes are high for a new record this year when the fundraising total is revealed during the broadcast on Sunday.

For Chloe Rogers, buying a hot dog today was a chance to combine a loved and familiar Bunnings tradition with a cause close to the hearts of many West Australians.

“I’m seeing so many smiles, and people from all different ages,” she said.

“Everyone is coming together to support Telethon, and there are a lot of families down here, which is fantastic, and a lot of kid-orientated activities.

Ms Rogers grew up watching Telethon and was now bringing her own children along to support the charity.

“I think more and more it’s important that we continue to do that,” she said.

“We’ve given some money already and it’s a fantastic community event to support Telethon.”