Over the last couple of weeks, we have been thrilled to welcome fundraisers, volunteers and community groups to our thank you events held at Government House and The Royal Children’s Hospital. These events celebrated the hard work and extraordinary generosity of some of our amazing supporters for the 2026 Good Friday Appeal.

This year marked the Appeal’s 95th year – and what a milestone it was. Together, our incredible community raised a record-breaking $25,268,485. These funds will support 30 vital projects across the hospital, including advanced equipment, specialised training and patient care. For the third consecutive year, $3 million will also support 30 regional paediatric health services, building capacity and capability, helping to keep sick kids closer to home to receive the care they need.

We were proud to celebrate 75 years of support from the CFA. Over those 75 years, CFA volunteers across Victoria have raised more than $43 million for the Appeal – including $2.1 million this year. This is a partnership marked by commitment, generosity and resilience, creating a legacy of impact across generations. This year regional Victoria raised over $5.9 million, led by the incredible support of our Area Managers who championed their local towns to get involved.

Another milestone was the 20th anniversary of the Herald Sun/Transurban Run for the Kids. This year, 30,000 participants walked, ran or rolled over the Bolte Bridge and through the Domain Tunnel, raising more than $1.3 million and bringing the event’s 20-year total to over $25 million.

Last week was National Volunteer Week, so it was wonderful to recognise some of our extraordinary long-term volunteers, who remain the backbone of the Appeal. Lillian Lewis and Steven Sylaidos celebrated 20 years of service, followed by Susi Colaianni at 25 years and Cathy Goodwin at 30 years. Julie McDonald, who couldn’t join our thank you event for her 35th year, was presented with her milestone recognition this year – marking an incredible 38 years of service. Phil Lennon was celebrated for 40 years managing traffic in the Money Counting room, and both Leonie Brown and Jay Hately were recognised for 45 years of dedication each. Together, this remarkable group represents 240 years of combined service to the Good Friday Appeal.

This year was also 81 years of partnership with Telstra, whose support continues to power our phone room. In 2026, over 7,000 calls were received, raising over $1.1 million on the day alone.

Every dollar raised, every hour volunteered, and every act of generosity makes a real difference to the children and families at The Royal Children’s Hospital. Read the 2026 Community Report to see just how far that generosity reaches – and thank you.

View photos from the 2026 Thank You events: