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Editorial: Telethon shows why it’s so wonderful to be West Australian

The West Australian
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Fremantle Dockers captain Nat Fyfe with the Little Telethon Stars Eamon Doak and Nora Holly backstage before the curtains went up on the closing night of Telethon 2020.
Camera IconFremantle Dockers captain Nat Fyfe with the Little Telethon Stars Eamon Doak and Nora Holly backstage before the curtains went up on the closing night of Telethon 2020. Credit: Danella Bevis/The West Australian

What an amazing weekend to be a West Australian. Unlike much of the rest of the nation battling storms and heavy rain, our weather was balmy and perfect. In contrast with other States still labouring under harsh COVID-19 restrictions, our shops and entertainment precincts were heaving with people.

Our economy is leading the nation and, as the Commonwealth Bank reports today, has “momentum on its side” thanks to our efforts in controlling the coronavirus. Our world-class mining industry fills Canberra’s coffers.

And then there is Telethon.

Only six months ago during the darkest days of the pandemic, it wasn’t even certain that this treasured fundraising institution which has been improving the lives of WA kids since 1968 would even be going ahead this year.

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Yet even before the curtains came down last night, it was on track to challenge the record $42.6 million raised last year for medical research and Perth Children’s Hospital. As in past years, the donations have ranged from the mind-boggling contributions of the State’s biggest companies and wealthiest individuals right down to the pocket money of community-minded kids who want to do their bit for a wonderful cause.

It’s an achievement of which every West Australian can be proud. But even more, it highlights the fact this beloved event has grown over the years to the stage that it’s surely one of the wonders of WA.

And as an expression of the State’s generosity and the community spirit of its 21/2 million residents, it’s arguably our greatest achievement. And in some respects, our best-kept secret. As Telethon chairman Richard Goyder explained at the weekend, when he mentions in the Eastern States that’s he is involved in a WA charity called Telethon, he’s met with approving nods and a few well-chosen pleasantries.

They don’t truly understand. It’s not until he starts rattling off the sums involved that the conversation changes: people sit up and want to know more. He said that under trying circumstances, he had been left in awe of WA’s selflessness.

“One thing you know about West Australians is that they are generous and they will look after our kids,” he said.

The pandemic meant Telethon was always going to be a bit different this year. Our hard borders meant the usual procession of Eastern States stars had to stay away. The emphasis was on homegrown talent and uniting the community.

Given all the challenges that 2020 has thrown at Telethon, Premier Mark McGowan described this year’s event as the best ever. We couldn’t put it better ourselves.

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