WA Telethon raises a record $25.2 million

Western Australia's 47th annual Telethon raised a record $25.2 million over the weekend to help improve the lives of sick children.

Since 1968, the Seven Network's Telethon has raised more than $170 million for charity.

Last year's record of $20.7 million was smashed as large donations pushed the total to $25,271,542 for Princess Margaret Hospital, the Telethon Kids Institute and the new Perth Children's Hospital.

Mining giant BHP Billiton made the largest pledge in Telethon's history, pledging $4 million as part of a $20 million five-year commitment.

Crown Perth donated $2.5 million while mining entrepreneur Andrew Forrest and his wife Nicola pledged $1 million through their Minderoo Foundation.

Perth businessman Tim Roberts, the McCusker Foundation and Kerry Stokes on behalf of his company Australian Capital Equity each pledged $1.5 million.

Other large donations came from Ramsay Health Care with $1 million and Wesfarmers with $1.25 million.

This year's Telethon home at Eden Beach sold for $700,000 while the regional home near Geraldton sold for $625,000.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott donated $1 million from the federal government, while WA Premier Colin Barnett presented a cheque for $500,000 on behalf of the state government.

Mr Barnett said the 26-hour Telethon showed a remarkable ability to bring together all West Australians and show the community's generous spirit.

"It's important to recognise and thank the large number of volunteers, celebrities and staff of Channel 7," he said.

This year's Telethon children were seven-year-old Emily Prior and 10-year-old Patrick Majewski.