Annual Wesley Fair supports Sydney’s homeless

Sydney’s CBD buzzed with excitement when Wesley Fair came to town on Thursday 7 November.

Shoppers, city workers and tourists were invited to ‘shop for a cause’ and raise funds for people experiencing homelessness.

This year Wesley Fair raised $28,000, with all proceeds going towards the refurbishment of Wesley Edward Eagar Centre, our vital inner-city emergency accommodation.

Hungry shoppers stopped by for French crepes, homemade cakes or a delicious bacon and egg roll, all while searching for hidden treasures amongst books, DVDs, plants, fashion and other items on offer. And as many shoppers searched for vintage bargains, they were excited to discover their dollars go towards helping those most in need in our community.

Amongst the vintage bargains, Sydneysiders were dazzled by a special circus performance from Dance Central, a solo Tibetan dance by Elaine Wang and entertained by live music from talented Latin jazz ensemble Rio10 Trio.

Editor-at-large for Vogue and GQ, Melissa Hoyer interviewed Australian fashion designer, Amy Taylor who shared sustainable fashion tips for shoppers searching for vintage clothing. They both encouraged Sydneysiders to ‘shop for a cause’ and support those most in need.

“I want to lend my name, my brand… my influence to good cause,” said Melissa. “I think Wesley [Mission] has been one I’ve always looked at and thought of homelessness, which is such a huge issue nationally, not even just Sydney and I just think whatever I can do in my humble capacity to draw attention to it.”

Amy added: “We are also born to give back. Everything that we’re given should be given back… I think a good starting point is helping a charity like Wesley Mission.”

Our live auction had some exceptional items up for grabs, including a one-night stay at the Sydney Hilton Hotel, a Nespresso machine and an Osmo Action Camera, which raised $4,505.

A tradition that has lasted for 106 years, Wesley Fair was initially launched by the Ladies’ Auxiliary Committee of the then Central Methodist Mission, and since then, has been run almost entirely by volunteers. Through the tireless efforts of our volunteers, Wesley Fair continues to be a pivotal event in the heart of Sydney.

Thank you to everyone who participated throughout the day, including our incredible volunteers and those who donated through shopping at Wesley Fair.