Landgate raises funds for homelessness

Landgate Chief Executive Mike Bradford joined CEOs and business leaders from across Australia last night to sleep 'rough' as part of the 2012 Vinnies CEO Sleepout.

The aim of the sleepout is to raise funds and awareness of homelessness in Australia.

Mr Bradford said participating in the CEO Sleepout was a challenging but rewarding experience that profoundly affected him.

"We were only given two pieces of cardboard for bedding but my discomfort only further cemented in my mind the importance of Saint Vincent de Paul's work," said Mr Bradford.

"In a country as wealthy as Australia, homelessness should not be a problem but almost 14,000 people in the State are sleeping rough every night."

"I learnt a lot about the impact homelessness has on individuals and families including hearing from homeless youth, some as young as 12, and the importance of the work Vinnies do in providing immediate support and longer term assistance to help people take control of their future."

Landgate staff held a number of internal fundraising activities that raised more than $3,000 towards the appeal. Several local Midland businesses such as The Oven Door Bakery, Swan Marquees and Party Hire, Gilbert's Fresh Market and Willowbank Butchery, donated produce and equipment towards the fundraising activities.

"I would like to thank everyone for their generous support in helping me raise $8000, all of which will be used by Vinnies to provide services to the homeless in Western Australia," said Mr Bradford.

The 2012 Vinnies CEO Sleepout was held on Thursday 21 June at the WACA.

Landgate is Western Australia's primary source of land information and geographic data, providing the accuracy government, business and individuals rely on.

Image available on request.