On 13 August 2025, Starlight Children’s Foundation (Starlight) and its official Wishgranting partner, Virgin Australia, marked a milestone 15-year partnership by flying three children and their families to the heart of Australia, Uluru, for a five-day adventure of a lifetime.
The journey is part of Virgin Australia’s long-standing commitment to Starlight, which has seen the airline help grant more than 3,000 travel wishes over the past decade and a half. Last year alone, Virgin Australia supported almost 40 per cent of Starlight’s travel wishes, flying children and their families to destinations across Australia and beyond.
The Uluru adventure began with an exciting send-off in the Virgin Australia Lounge at Brisbane Airport, where families enjoyed games, surprises and entertainment with Captain Starlight, before boarding their Virgin Australia flight. Over five magical days, the families stayed at Ayers Rock Resort and explored Australia’s spiritual heart, including a breathtaking sunrise over Uluru, camel rides, dot painting, didgeridoo lessons and unforgettable outback adventures – creating memories to treasure forever.
Starlight CEO Louise Baxter said: “At Starlight we believe happiness matters. And our Wish granting partner Virgin Australia believes this too. Virgin Australia’s incredible support has helped Starlight grant over 3,000 seriously ill children their life-changing Starlight Wish. Giving them something positive to look forward to and lift their spirits when they are facing the most challenging times.
“Everyone at Virgin Australia, from the welcoming cabin crew, ground teams and those behind the scenes, go above and beyond to ensure Starlight Wish children have a truly wonderful travel experience. We are so excited to celebrate our 15-year partnership right in the heart of Australia!”
Virgin Australia CEO Dave Emerson said the partnership reflects the airline’s purpose of creating uplifting experiences that make travel more joyful and meaningful.
“For 15 years, we’ve been privileged to help Starlight grant thousands of travel wishes, giving children and their families moments of joy, connection and hope during incredibly tough times. Every Starlight Wish we support is a reminder of the power of travel to inspire and uplift. It’s one of the most meaningful things we do at Virgin Australia, and we’re incredibly proud of our team who go above and beyond to make these journeys remarkable,” Emerson said.
For children like Wyatt, 17, from regional Victoria, Lucie, 12, from Sydney, and Willow, 14, from Newcastle, the Uluru trip is more than a holiday – it’s a wish come true. Each has faced serious illness and treatment, and the journey offers a chance to heal, dream and embrace new adventures together with their loved ones.
Research shows Starlight Wishes provide a welcome distraction from a child’s illness or treatment, helping to inspire them to achieve more by engaging in activities they had previously not considered possible. Travel gives opportunities for families to see unknown places and try new experiences, fostering a sense of togetherness and promoting joy and happiness. Fulfilling a travel wish can help a child feel better equipped to overcome adverse events in the future by increasing resilience, confidence and self-esteem.
