Numbers right for nomination

CALLING bingo numbers might seem like an easy task, but try raising more than $350,000 a year for a charity in the process.

Volunteer Peter Manwaring hosts bingo nights three times a week for Conquer Cystic Fibrosis and over the past eight years, he has raised more than $1 million.

The Ellenbrook dad has been nominated for the Community News People’s Choice “Spirit of Volunteering” award for his incredible fundraising efforts for the charity group.

Comprising mainly parents, relatives and friends of those fighting the genetic condition, Mr Manwaring said he was drawn to the charity because he wanted to help make a difference.

“Initially when I started out, I didn’t know anyone with Cystic Fibrosis,” he said.

“I just approached the charity and asked if I could help and they were overwhelmed and grateful.

“Conquer Cystic Fibrosis appeals to me as a charity because I know that every single dollar we raise goes directly into research.

“It is run by parents with children with Cystic Fibrosis, so I know they care deeply about the cause and will stop at nothing to extend the life of not only their children, but others around the country.”

Mr Manwaring said he now has friends that have since had children with the condition.

So why bingo?

Mr Manwaring and his wife Lisa have been playing bingo for more than 20 years and he knew bingo was a fun and interactive game for all ages.

Held in Middle Swan, Balcatta and Madeley, his bingo nights attract more than 600 players a week.

“For some people, this is their only night out, so we try to make it fun for all involved,” Mr Manwaring said.

“I personally enjoy seeing all ages interact with other and it gives everyone a nice night out that doesn’t cost a lot of money. They also get a chance to walk away big winners.

“At our big nights, people have walked away winning $10,000 on our main game.”

Extremely humbled and thankful for the nomination, Mr Manwaring said he couldn’t run bingo three nights a week and work full time as a purchasing officer without the support of Lisa and team of volunteers.

“As most volunteers would say, I don’t do this for the fanfare and accolades, I do this to give people a night out and to raise as much money as possible for Conquer Cystic Fibrosis,’’ he said.

“We need to save these children’s lives. No parent should ever have to bury their children.

“I want to make a difference to the community.”

National Volunteer Week is from May 20-26. Search for a volunteer position at the Volunteering WA website.