A sold-out Spin the Wheel, three rounds of the 100 Club and a spirited jersey auction helped Mai-Wel raise almost $12,000 at the recent Maitland Rugby Blacks Charity Day.
The fundraising event at Marcellin Park in Lorn coincided with round six of the Hunter Rugby competition and drew strong support from the players, families, local businesses and the wider community.
Funds will now go directly toward supporting the people Mai-Wel work with across the Hunter, helping them access employment, build skills and connect with others.
Mai-Wel CEO John Cleary said the event highlighted the power of community partnerships.
“To see everyone come together in such a meaningful way was incredibly special,” he explained.
“The energy throughout the day reflected what can happen when communities back inclusion and opportunity.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the Maitland Blacks Rugby Club, the players who ran out in the jerseys showcasing Mai-Wel Indigenous artwork, and those who got behind the success of the day.”
Mai-Wel’s senior manager – engagement Belinda McNab admitted the response exceeded expectations.
“We sold every single Spin the Wheel prize, the 100 Club had huge support and the jersey auction created plenty of excitement throughout the afternoon,” she said.
“To raise close to $12,000 in a single day is an incredible outcome… and every dollar will help support the people we work alongside every day across our region.”
The day also featured a half-time activation involving Mai-Wel participants and Maitland players, with on-field activities receiving strong backing from the crowd.
Mai-Wel would like to extend its sincere thanks to the local businesses and organisations who donated prizes for the Spin the Wheel, including The Bradford Hotel, Woolworths Maitland, Booth Contracting, Maddies of Bolwarra, Dullboys, Hunter Valley Cookie Co, Peachy GreenGrocer, 88Custom, Saje Beauty Aesthetics, Beautification, Total Tools Rutherford and Maitland Rugby Club.
To find out more about Mai-Wel or how to get involved, visit maiwel.com.au.
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