The view back to the city and Sydney Harbour was magnificent.
The office lights were a bright beacon highlighting a modern, thriving international city.
But already the temperature was plummeting, and the dew stood ready to throw a wet, cold blanket over the group that had assembled for this year’s Vinnies CEO Sleepout – the charities major fundraiser.
Preparing for a long, cold night: Dominic Sullivan and Tony Wishart, with PAYCE Foundation Director Sophie Boyd.
For those preparing to bed down, the nervous chatter was in full flight.
How should one use the two pieces of cardboard?
Double mattress or single, and one for shelter from the cold?
Tony Wishart, from PAYCE, came prepared, but when it came time to bed down, the cardboard mattress was a harsh awakening to what homeless people experience every night.
“It really was a very cold, uncomfortable experience, with sleep for 30 minutes at a time at best.
“But when you fully appreciate that this is life for too many people in Sydney, you understand that it is a small inconvenience.
“It was an experience, and I appreciate the people who sponsored me – I know Vinnies will make a difference with the funds raised.”
The stories of people living on the street are many and varied.
With the cost-of-living crisis, the numbers are growing with many forced onto the street due to rising rents.
PAYCE Foundation Director Dominic Sullivan participated for a second year.
“By morning, everything and everyone was wet and cold,” he said.
“It is hard to imagine that hundreds of people go through this every night.
“Fortunately, there are organisations like Vinnies who not only provide shelter and support, but also services to help people rebuild their lives.”
Tony and Dominic raised over $72,000 to assist homeless people.
