Charity auction aims to save lives, fight child trafficking
A charity auction at Mooloolah Public Hall on Saturday, May 10 will raise vital funds to support Destiny Rescue, an international organisation dedicated to rescuing and restoring children from sex trafficking.
Organised by local resident Fiona Cran, the event will run from 6pm to 9pm and features live and silent auctions, live music, a dessert and drinks bar, and a powerful guest address by Destiny Rescue representative Nerilee Sowter.
Destiny Rescue was founded in 2001 by Tony Kirwan, who was on a mission trip to Thailand and Cambodia at the time.
While there, Tony was exposed to the vulnerability of children when he overheard a man offering a child for pleasure for a sum of money. He was so shocked he wasn’t sure that he heard it exactly the way he thought. So he asked the people in his group and they began to tell him about child trafficking and sexual exploitation of children. And it was there, on that street corner, that Tony prayed: “God, have mercy on these kids”. And then he paused and said: “No God, have mercy on me if I do nothing for these children.”
“It really hit me and I knew I had to do something,” Tony says. “It was at this point, I believe God put the vision of Destiny Rescue in my heart.”
Today, Destiny Rescue’s work has grown into a worldwide organisation dedicated to rescuing children from sexual exploitation and trafficking and equipping them to stay free. We serve to help amplify the voices of both those who are enslaved and have been freed from abuse.
“This cause is very close to my heart,” said Mrs Cran. “These children need a voice and practical help—and that’s exactly what Destiny Rescue provides. Every dollar we raise on the night will go directly to supporting rescue operations and aftercare programs.”
Local auctioneer Sam Nobel of Nobel Real Estate will lead the live auction, with generous donations from local businesses including Treetops Montville, Beerwah Golf Club, Costco, Mooloolah Dental, and many others including Andrew Powell MP. Meanwhile, Brom Cottage accomodation Mooloolah Valley have sponsored drinks for the night.
Auction items range from accommodation packages and sporting goods to dining vouchers, jewellery and unique local experiences.
“The support from the Sunshine Coast community has been amazing,” Mrs Cran said. “It’s heartening to see how many individuals and businesses have stepped forward to donate items, sponsor the night, or simply spread the word.”
Tickets are $10 and include a complimentary drink and dessert. Extra refreshments will be available for purchase on the night. All proceeds go directly to Destiny Rescue.
“This is more than just a fundraiser,” Mrs Cran added. “It’s a community coming together to help vulnerable children find freedom, safety and a future.”
• Event details:
Destiny Rescue Charity Auction, Saturday 10 May 2025, 6–9pm, Mooloolah Public Hall, 42 Bray Road, Mooloolah Valley. Tickets $10 (includes a drink and dessert) can be booked online at: www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1379903 or paid at the door. For more information, contact Fiona Cran on 0411 306 838.
