13 October 2026
Thousands of school students across Western Australia combined their efforts to raise a staggering $153,760 for sick, vulnerable and disadvantaged children during the 2026 Premier's Telethon Challenge.
Students raised a staggering $153,760 during the 2026 Premier's Telethon Challenge.
Students from 75 schools showed generosity, empathy and collaboration, with many finding creative ways to raise valuable funds for vulnerable children.
Communities dug deep to smash last year’s challenge record by more than $35,000.
Mindarie Primary School excelled for a second consecutive year, raising a record $32,202.
As a result, they went one better than last year and secured the top fundraising spot.
The school raised money by raffling off VIP parking spots and a deluxe spectator package for their school sports carnival, selling 1.5 tonnes of cookie dough and hosting a musical performance showcase.
Mindarie Primary School principal Barbara Bromley said the school focus 'Mindarie and Beyond' reflected the incredible strength and generosity of the wider community.
"From local childcare centres to valued community partners such as Rotary, people came together to support our fundraising efforts and make a difference for children and families across Western Australia," she said.
"We also wanted our students to develop a deeper understanding of what Telethon represents.
"By highlighting causes supported by Telethon that directly connect to students and families within our own school community, the challenge became much more personal and meaningful.
"It was no longer just about raising funds. It was about helping others and understanding the impact we can have when we work together."
The highest fundraisers for each school size category include:
- Durham Road School, $3,567 (small school)
- North Woodvale Primary School, $20,521 (medium school)
- Mindarie Primary School, $32,202 (large school).
The top school fundraiser in each category will have the opportunity to choose a behind-the-scenes experience during Telethon Weekend (17 to 18 October) or a visit from Fat Cat to their school.
Alongside the challenge, the visual art competition encouraged students to reflect on their experience of giving.
The competition received 84 entries, including a collaborative project from the students at Freshwater Bay Primary School titled Wings of Hope, a sculpture made from messages of hope handwritten by the students.
"Each individual feather represents one small act of kindness," said Freshwater Bay art teacher Amelia Joseph.
"Together, hundreds of these individual contributions formed two giant wings, symbolising the strength and compassion that can be created when a whole community comes together to lift, support and inspire others."
Fat Cat will select their favourite artworks to be displayed in The West Australian newspaper and around RAC Arena during Telethon Weekend.
A presentation event will also be held at The Perth Mint on Friday 16 October to celebrate the amazing fundraising efforts of WA schools before the Telethon Weekend begins.