Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor Bilal El Hayek was joined by community leaders and local CEO’s to raise funds for those experiencing homelessness.

Braving the cold temperatures, the group bunkered down in makeshift cardboard tents alongside the Mayor at Bankstown Airport on Friday Night.

The inaugural Mayor’s Lights Out Sleepout raised around $28,500 which will go towards vital services to support those in need across our City.

The fundraising event, which was organised through Mission Australia, was supported by Aeria Management Group, Bankstown Airport, Opal and other local organisations.

Those sleeping out were treated to a humbling meal of sausages and rice and a bowl of hot soup as the temperatures dropped to a low of seven degrees.

“It was a pretty tough night as the cold really set in,” Mayor El-Hayek said.

“You don’t really know what it’s like to sleep rough, especially during winter, until you give it a go.

“It was a real eye opening experience for all who slept out and a wake up call to do what we can to end homelessness.”

The Mayor thanked those who helped make the event a success including CEO Aeria Management Group Daniel Jarosch, City of Canterbury Bankstown Business and Engagement Manager Mike Thomas, Community Safety and Crime Prevention Officer Stephen Williamson, Representatives from PolAir, and from Mission Australia State Leader Greater Western Sydney Saeli Masina and Program Manager Ludmila Klianev.

He also thanked the Exodus Foundation and the Rotary Club Padstow for providing meals and refreshments.

All proceeds from the sleepout will go towards vital support services for people and communities in greatest need.