Spotlight on Our WWT2 Stars: Emma Sampson & Megan Gaffney
Wagga Wagga Takes 2 has always been about heart — everyday people stepping into the spotlight to raise money for causes that matter deeply to them. This year, two remarkable women are taking the stage with stories that are as inspiring as they are personal.
Emma Sampson: From Singapore to Victoria, and now Centre Stage
Emma Sampson’s journey to Wagga Wagga has been anything but ordinary. Growing up in Singapore, she later found herself on a beef cattle farm in Victoria before landing what she proudly calls her dream job — news reporter for Channel 7 News Wagga.
But later this year, Emma will be holding a very different microphone as she steps onto the WWT2 stage.
Emma has embraced the experience wholeheartedly, describing it as one of the most joyful challenges she’s taken on. Even more meaningful is the opportunity to raise funds for Lilier Lodge, a charity close to her heart and well known to Sunrise Rotary members, who regularly host Wednesday evening dinners for guests staying there.
Emma’s WWT2 partner is local music veteran Josh McKellar, a familiar face (and voice) across the Riverina. With more than 20 years of performing under his belt — from acoustic gigs to fronting rock bands One Shot Too Many and Radio Velvet — Josh brings experience, energy, and a steady guiding hand to the duo’s performance journey.
Together, Emma and Josh promise a performance filled with enthusiasm, heart, and plenty of fun.
Megan’s Story: Turning Grief Into Compassion Through The Vilomah Community
Our second speaker, Megan, is a familiar and much‑loved member of the Sunrise Rotary family. Growing up on a farm at The Rock, she now calls Wagga home with her husband Carl and their children Jack, Tom and Lily.
But Megan’s story begins with Ruby — their first child, stillborn at 40 weeks on 4 August 2010. Ruby made Megan a mother, and her presence continues to shape Megan’s life and the work she does today.
It is no surprise, then, that Megan’s chosen charity for WWT2 is The Vilomah Community, an organisation she co‑founded in 2021 with close friend Bek. When Bek and her husband Matt’s daughter Mia was stillborn in 2019, Megan reached out — one bereaved mother supporting another. Through their shared grief, they recognised a profound gap in support for families from the moment their baby dies.
From that need, The Vilomah Community was born.
Since its founding, the organisation has supported more than 100 families across the region, offering guidance, memory‑making keepsakes, and both practical and emotional support during the darkest of times. Their work has become a lifeline for families navigating unimaginable loss.
Taking part in Wagga Wagga Takes Two in 2026 is deeply personal for Megan — a tribute to Ruby, to Mia, and to every family who has walked this path.
Her WWT2 partner is beloved local entertainer Aaron Oldaker, whose warmth, humour, and easygoing nature have made Megan feel right at home on stage.
A Year of Heartfelt Performances Ahead
Both Emma and Megan bring courage, passion, and purpose to the WWT2 stage. Their stories remind us why this event matters — it’s not just about the music, the lights, or the applause. It’s about community. It’s about connection. And it’s about lifting up the charities that quietly change lives every day.
We can’t wait to cheer them on.