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Vinnies NT inviting business leaders, community to annual ‘CEO Sleepout’ event at Fannie Bay Gaol in June

Vinnies NT is asking for support from business leaders and the community ahead of its CEO Sleepout event in June. Find out how you can get involved.

Launch of Vinnies NT's chief executive (CEO) sleep out on April 3, 2025. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin
Launch of Vinnies NT's chief executive (CEO) sleep out on April 3, 2025. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Each night more than 13,000 Territorians are left searching for a safe place to sleep – often to no avail.

It’s the harsh reality that plays out across the Northern Territory, which has a homeless population 12 times higher than the national average.

With just more than two months until Vinnies NT’s ‘CEO Sleepout’ event, set to be held on June 19 at the Fannie Bay Gaol, the organisation is asking for the support of business leaders and the community.

Launch of Vinnies NT's chief executive (CEO) sleep out on April 3, 2025. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin
Launch of Vinnies NT's chief executive (CEO) sleep out on April 3, 2025. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

So far, 11 chief executives have registered to participate – raising a total of $7172.

While an encouraging start, Vinnies NT says it wants more registrations, nominations and donations to ensure it can provide critical services to Territorians in need.

Vinnies NT has set a total fundraising goal of $100,000, with all donations expected to go directly to providing accommodation, food and other essentials to those experiencing homelessness.

Rob Lutter CEO, Vinnies NT, Damian Legg President, Vinnies NT and Dave Dann INPEX General Manager at the launch of Vinnies NT's chief executive (CEO) sleep out on April 3, 2025. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin
Rob Lutter CEO, Vinnies NT, Damian Legg President, Vinnies NT and Dave Dann INPEX General Manager at the launch of Vinnies NT's chief executive (CEO) sleep out on April 3, 2025. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

“If you can’t register to participate in this year’s CEO Sleepout, then nominate someone who can — and if you can’t participate or nominate, please consider making a donation,” said Vinnies NT President Damian Legg.

“The demand for our services continues to grow, and Territorians are increasingly relying on our volunteers and our homelessness, emergency relief, and housing services just to survive.

“The CEO Sleepout is more than just a fundraiser — it’s an opportunity for business leaders to experience, even for one night, the harsh reality faced by thousands in our community.

“Every participant, nominee, and donor helps us deliver lifesaving support to those who need it most.”

Dave Dann, INPEX General Manager at the launch of Vinnies NT's chief executive (CEO) sleep out on April 3, 2025. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin
Dave Dann, INPEX General Manager at the launch of Vinnies NT's chief executive (CEO) sleep out on April 3, 2025. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

General manager onshore at INPEX, Dave Dann, a long-time advocate and participant in the CEO Sleepout, is now preparing for his fourth year as part of the Vinnies NT Deep Sleeper Club.

“Participating in the CEO Sleepout is always a humbling and eye-opening experience,” he said.

“Spending just one night sleeping rough gives you a glimpse into the uncertainty and vulnerability that so many people face daily.

“It’s not just about raising money – it’s about understanding the true impact of homelessness and doing something about it.”

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Original URL: https://www.ntnews.com.au/news/vinnies-nt-inviting-business-leaders-community-to-annual-ceo-sleepout-event-at-fannie-bay-gaol-in-june/news-story/4d337c32de0890f06f81ab3ec14c5e34