Two lucky winners received the keys to brand new 2025 Hyundai i30 sedan N Line vehicles as part of Telethon’s annual car giveaway. The event took place on October 19, 2023, in Perth, where Ken Panici-Allen and Mal Trenfield were honored for their generous donations to the charity, which supports sick children in Western Australia.
Ken Panici-Allen, a 74-year-old resident of Perth, expressed his delight after winning the metro prize. He described the $1,000 donation he made in honor of his wife, who is currently undergoing treatment for ovarian cancer and Parkinson’s disease, as “the best $1,000 I’ve spent in my life.” Mr. Panici-Allen said he wanted to see his wife’s name featured on television, bringing her joy during a challenging time.
Over the years, the couple has been consistent supporters of Telethon, and Mr. Panici-Allen encouraged others to contribute. He stated, “Every year you should go out there and spend that money because those kids really need it.” The couple experienced a memorable moment when they were surprised at their home by popular television personality Larry Emdur and former Australian rules footballer Patrick Cripps, who delivered the new car personally.
Recalling the surprise, Mr. Panici-Allen noted, “I jokingly told my wife that Larry was going to drop a car off soon, and then there was a knock at the door.” He shared that his wife was thrilled to meet Emdur, who she regularly watches on television. The spacious car will assist in transporting his wife to medical appointments, a vital consideration given their need to accommodate a wheelchair.
The regional winner, Mal Trenfield from Geraldton, also shared his excitement after winning with a $100 donation. Trenfield, who has supported Telethon since its inception, fondly remembered the event from his childhood. “I used to come back down from the country with my mum,” he said, adding that they have continued to donate each year.
While watching Telethon, Trenfield received the winning call but accidentally hung up on Emdur during the excitement. “I was talking to my son at the time, and when Larry called, I went to put him on hold and hung up on him instead,” he explained. Thankfully, Emdur called back, and Trenfield described the experience as “unbelievable.”
He reflected on the importance of Telethon, sharing how his family has benefited from its contributions. “Our family’s baby went through a lot of trouble, and they fixed him up at Perth Children’s Hospital,” he said. “So we will continue to donate.” Trenfield has made it a mission to encourage friends and family to contribute as well.
The keys to the new cars were presented by Rick Ardon, a well-known presenter from 7NEWS, at the Malaga showroom. He emphasized the broader impact of Telethon, stating, “The biggest benefit of all is that everyone gets to be a winner in terms of seeing how much we raise to help sick kids in WA.” Ardon noted that the event continues to grow each year, encouraging community support.
This year, Telethon achieved a remarkable fundraising total of $90,160,275, surpassing last year’s total of $83,264,216. Since its inception in 1968, the Telethon initiative has raised over $750 million to support children in need, demonstrating the community’s dedication to making a difference.
With the joy brought to the winners and the significant funds raised, this year’s Telethon serves as a reminder of the power of generosity and community spirit in Western Australia.
