Mal’s Monster Raffle Puts A Smile On Sick Kids’ Dials

By Sarah Healey on May 7, 2014 in News

Tucking your child into bed each night is something many parents relish after a long day at work, and knowing they’ll be there when you wake up the next morning is a blessing that can easily be taken for granted. Losing a child to a terminal illness is not something many parents have to think about, but for those who do suffer such loss, the pain is something that never goes away.

Local legend Mal Ward lost his son Johnno back in 2008 after an intense battle with childhood liver disease. This tragedy inspired Mal to establish ‘Forever Johnno’, a charity that raises money for the Clancy Ward at Westmead Children’s Hospital, where Johnno received much of his care.

Wardy’s ‘Forever Johnno’ Monster Raffle and Auction is celebrating its 14th year this year, with the night coinciding with Mal’s fiftieth birthday. It will be held at Selina’s in the Coogee Bay Hotel on Friday, May 16 from 7pm.

“I can’t think of a more fitting way to share my half century than with my son’s big night,” Mal said.

Managing Director of the Coogee Bay Hotel Christopher Cheung is proud that his establishment will be hosting the event, having known Mal and Johnno for many years.

“In his honour we are so excited to be holding this fundraiser. This is a great cause for an inspiring young man,” Chris said.

On the night you’ll have the chance to mingle with a host of celebrities including Australia’s Next Top Model beauties, NRL and AFL players, and television stars. There are a number of auction items, raffle prizes and giveaways up for grabs, including accommodation, restaurant and shopping vouchers, signed footy jerseys, ladies gift packs and more. You can also dance yourself into a stupor to the sounds of Nick Andrews and Friends while digging in to finger food and pizza.

If you can’t make it on the night and would still like to donate or purchase raffle tickets, visit the CBH Boutique Hotel reception on Vicar Street, Coogee. All proceeds will go straight to the sick kids in need at Westmead’s Clancy Ward. For more information, call Mal on 0414 293 396.