The Perth community turned out in force for Mondo Community Warriors Bonfire and Blossoms fundraising event at Weemala Orchard in Carmel which combined food, entertainment and springtime scenery to support Lifeline WA.
Organised by well-known fundraiser and Have a Go News columnist Vince Garreffa, the event provided an afternoon and evening among the orchard’s peach blossoms.
The program featured live performances by soprano Aimee-Rose Keppler, Carmine Napoli and Little Miss Squeeze Box Nikki D’Agostino. There was a sheep shearing demonstration, and the lighting of a large bonfire that became the centrepiece of the night.
What is unique about a Mondo Community Warriors event is every single cent raised goes directly to the cause. Vince has a knack of ensuring that every item used at the event is donated including the venue, food, drink and prizes.
These events would not be possible without community spirit and many people coming together to ensure its success.
Thanks to owners of Weemala Orchard the four generation Vincenti family. MC for the evening Verity James who has been a long-time supporter; St Patrick’s Mount Lawley for tables and chairs, Perth Hire Shop and Stage and Studio Productions.
Food suppliers included Mottainai Lamb, Basile Importers, Vesuvio pasta, Mondo Butchers, Le Delizia Cheese, Pronto Fine Foods, Mimmo’s ice cream, VCM Coffee and Torrent Wines. Cheers to the chefs who cooked all the food…Don Hancey, Rod Nixon, Bruce Robb, Peter Manifis as well as students from the WA College of Agriculture in Narrogin.
Hundreds of prizes were donated on the night including the opportunity to enjoy a fully catered dinner with guest of honour Leader of the Opposition Basil Zempilas which raised more than $11,000.
Vince who over the years has raised more than four million dollars for Lifeline WA, and a million dollars for other smaller charities said the event was about more than just food and entertainment, it showed what can be done when so many band together for such an important cause.
All tickets, raffles and the auction raised more than $47,000 dollars which goes directly to Lifeline WA.
Lifeline WA CEO Lorna MacGregor praised the initiative, saying events like Bonfire and Blossoms play a vital role in sustaining the organisation’s 24/7 crisis support services.
As the bonfire burned into the night, guests captured photos among the blossoms and reflected on the importance of community connection. For many, the event was not only a celebration of spring but also a reminder of the power of collective action in supporting mental health.
