Fresh produce suppliers at the Melbourne Wholesale Market in Epping channeled their inner superhero in the early hours of Wednesday morning, June 29 to support ‘Hero For HeartKids.’
The initiative encourages workplaces, schools, childcare centres and the broader community to dress as a superhero to raise funds to support children living with congenital heart disease.
With special guests Richmond football champion Jack Riewoldt, and Logie winning Googlebox stars Adam Densten and Symon Lovett, the fundraiser raised $50,000 for HeartKids.
Entertainment included superhero appearances, a handball competition, breakfast, and a lively auction.
Employees were able to bring their children along who otherwise aren’t permitted at the market, to support the cause.
Riewoldt showed off his skills in a market handball competition and kicked off the major prize auction as the first auctioneer.
“It’s been good fun. It’s school holidays, so a lot of kids running around, feels like a fresh fruit Christmas, everyone’s got a bit of a skip in their step,” Riewoldt said.
Melbourne market wholesaler and grower V.F. Siciliano & Sons Tony Siciliano was a driving force in putting the event together.
“It’s a great community here in the market; everyone’s been very generous. It’s all about families, it’s all about helping each other; we’re proud to get behind HeartKids,” Mr Siciliano said.
Googlebox duo Adam Densten and Symon Lovett acted as MC’s for the event, with Adam having a personal connection to the charity as the brother of a “heart kid.”
“If you’re looking for a charity to support, HeartKids is a great one; they’re really good people, and the money goes to the right places. So If you ever see a HeartKids event, get involved, as it’s lots of fun,” Symon said.
HeartKids Victorian state manager Norman Hutton said children affected by heart disease rely on the many services that the not-for-profit organisation provides.
“Every day in Australia there are eight children born with a heart defect, which means there is a family every three hours whose life will change in a heartbeat, and sadly four lives will be lost each week.”
