The mayor and general manager are the first two high-profile locals to confirm their participation in the third annual Vinnie’s Sleepout at the Muswellbrook Showground on Thursday, June 22, from 6pm.

The event is a joint initiative between Upper Hunter Youth Services, Upper Hunter Homeless Support, St Vincent de Paul Society, Hope City Church and Muswellbrook High School.

Mr Crockett admitted the 2016 sleepout had a big impact on the pair.

“Homelessness doesn’t discriminate,” he said.

“And, last year’s event was an eye-opener for me.

“I slept in the back of my vehicle – it was an uncomfortable time.

“But, people experience that every night. 

“As a direct result of us sleeping out in 2016, we resolved to undertake repairs to a Scone house at 145 Liverpool Street – which is owned by council, with the aim of making it available as emergency accommodation.

“We’ve dedicated it for Upper Hunter Homeless Support and we’re working with various agencies to ensure it happens.

“So, we’d like others to support the cause.”

Upper Hunter Homeless Support case worker – community development Marina Lee-Warner had nothing but praise for the pair.

“Wayne and Waid have been fantastic,” she said.

“In fact, [Upper Hunter Shire] council is a big supporter of the sleepout.

“In Australia, 105,237 people are homeless or sleeping rough.

“And, 43 per cent [of that figure] are under the age of 25.

“Unfortunately, we have thousands of homeless people in the Hunter because there’s not enough public housing in the region.

“So, it’s important to get that message out, via the Vinnie’s Sleepout.

“You can sleep on a couch, in a car or just rough it. 

“Grab your sleeping bag, favourite pillow and warm pyjamas – and take part.

“All the money raised will stay local.”

A $25 Vinnie’s Sleepout donation includes a light supper (supplied by Muswellbrook Red Cross), slices, tea and coffee, as well as theatre games, entertainment, movies and more.