130 of Canberra’s business, community and government leaders who converged on the National Arboretum last night for the 2021 Vinnies CEO Sleepout have raised just shy of $1 million for their efforts.

A total of 164 participants braved the cold last night, with those who didn’t make it to the Arboretum sleeping in their cars, couches, backyards, or in carparks across the region.

Those who got along to the Arboretum came armed with their sleeping bags and were given just three pieces of cardboard to set up shelter for the night.

They were fed soup and a bread roll for dinner as the mercury dropped to just 5°c, the coldest night-time temperature of any state or territory last night.

By 10:30pm, it was time for the CEOs to get into their sleeping bags and experience what it is like for the 116,000 people around Australia who do not have a roof over their heads.

Despite the freezing conditions, morale was high with many CEOs choosing to stay awake and fundraise through the night via text, phone calls and social media platforms.

Even though it didn’t get as cold as it has in previous years, St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/Goulburn CEO Barnie van Wyk said it was still an uncomfortable experience for those who took part.

“It is hard to comprehend how so many individuals and families have to go through this every night,” he said.

The event, which exceeded its original and stretch targets of $630,000 and $800,000 for 2021 prior to event night, ended up raising $971,641.

Vinnies is now aiming to reach $1 million as participants continue to fundraise until the cut-off date of 31 July.

“We are incredibly amazed, inspired and grateful for the solidarity and generosity of participants and their supporters,” said Mr van Wyk.

“Total dollars raised have surpassed our wildest expectations and exceeded the event’s highest ever fundraising total to date of $812,000 in 2019.”

The funds raised will allow Vinnies to continue providing their intervention and support services to those at risk of or experiencing homelessness in the Canberra region.

Fundraising for the 2021 CEO Sleepout will continue until the end of July; donations can be made via ceosleepout.org.au