This milestone brings their decade-long fundraising total to a staggering $1,123,682.83, solidifying Barry Plant’s commitment to supporting Make-A-Wish in granting life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.

To celebrate the incredible success of the 2024 Wishtober campaign and Barry Plant’s decade-long partnership with Make-A-Wish Australia, CEO Sally Bateman and former Wish recipient Ellie joined the Barry Plant Managers Meeting to accept this year’s donation and share their stories.  

Addressing a packed room of directors, managers, and head office staff, Ellie spoke about living with cystic fibrosis and her life-changing Wish—to meet the band ‘One Direction’ and attending their concert at the age of 14. Her inspiring story highlighted the profound impact a Wish can have, creating hope, joy and long-lasting memories to children facing serious illnesses.  

Ellie’s heartfelt account deeply moved everyone in attendance, serving as a powerful reminder of why Barry Plant proudly supports Make-A-Wish Australia every October.

Wishtober, which has become a hallmark of Barry Plant’s community engagement, involves donating a portion of every property sale throughout October to Make-A-Wish Australia. The funds support the charity’s mission to bring hope, and joy to Wish children and their families when they need it most.

This year’s contributions will help the organisation continue to grant wishes that create lasting memories for children and their families during some of life’s most challenging moments.

Reflecting on the milestone, Barry Plant CEO Lisa Pennell expressed immense pride in the network’s ongoing support of Make-A-Wish. 

"Reaching this year’s total and surpassing the $1million mark over the last decade is a testament to the strength of our network and the incredible generosity of our community,” said Pennell.

“Every year, our agents, clients, and supporters come together to make a tangible difference, and we’re excited to continue this tradition of giving.”

Make-A-Wish Australia CEO Sally Bateman also reflected on the long-standing partnership.

“This Wishtober marks 10 years for Barry Plant and Make-A-Wish Australia,” said Bateman.

“With record numbers of new applications to our Wish program, Barry Plant’s continued support is making an extraordinary impact in the community. It allows us to create moments of hope and happiness for wish kids and their families, memories that will last a lifetime.”

Looking ahead, the Barry Plant team is already setting its sights on the future. The success of this year’s campaign has only strengthened their resolve to continue supporting Make-A-Wish Australia, with the aim of raising another $1 million and beyond. 

As Wishtober enters its next chapter, the entire network is unified in its mission to bring more smiles, more joy, and more life-changing experiences to children who need it most.

Barry Plant’s Wishtober campaign remains a shining example of the positive impact that can be achieved through collective effort and community spirit. With a decade of partnership and over a million dollars raised, the legacy of Wishtober is one of hope, compassion, and unwavering support for some of Australia’s bravest children.