Rotary Wishing Well breaks Christmas lights donation record

"The wishing well broke all records this year to raise funds for the local community,” project coordinator Martin Robinson said.

“We’re very grateful to everyone who participated, especially Mandurah Cruises and their customers who were most generous.”

Proceeds from the wishing well are spent locally on stand-alone projects to accomplish specific goals that benefit people in the Mandurah area.

The grant application form is currently available on the Rotary Club of Mandurah website and the closing date for applications is March 31.

Mandurah Cruises director Peter Robinson said community support was key to the event’s success each year.

“The community create the event by the canal residents putting up lights, then Mandurah Cruises and other vessels carry people to the spectacle where they donate to the community charity via the Rotary Wishing Well,” he said.

Canal residents who put up lights are rewarded each year with a thank-you soiree created by Mandurah Cruises and long term sponsor Renee Hardman, principal of L J Hooker Mandurah and head judge of the annual lights contest.

“The residents of our beautiful Mandurah canals give their time and generosity to create this wonderful spectacle which brings joy to so many every year,” she said.

“We thank them, and the people who support with singing and carols which add to the fun and atmosphere of this event.”