Every May, Australians pop the kettle on, whip up their favourite bikkies, and gather for a cuppa with a purpose. It’s no regular morning tea — it’s Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, a loving initiative by the Cancer Council that’s been raising funds for cancer research, prevention and support since 1994. In 2025, it’s shaping up to be bigger than ever. This May 22nd, no matter how you’re planning to host – a tea in your backyard, the office lunchroom, or your local community hall – there’s one thing you simply cannot forget to keep your guests coming back – guest thank you gifts.
At Tastebuds, we believe generosity should be celebrated. And when you show your guests a little extra appreciation with a warm gift or two, you’ll find donations don’t just pour in — they double.
Here’s how to host a morning tea that’s welcoming, warm, and wonderfully generous — plus gift ideas to help you spread the love and raise more for this incredible cause.
What Is Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea?
If you’re new to the tradition, here’s the quick rundown – Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea is the Cancer Council’s biggest fundraising event of the year. Aussies across the country come together over scones, slices, and steaming mugs to raise money for cancer research and support services. It’s a grassroots movement — anyone can host one, anywhere.
From school kids selling cupcakes to workplaces hosting fancy spreads, every dollar helps. The official date in 2025 is Thursday 22 May, but you can hold your event anytime in May or June. All you need is a space, some morning tea goodies, and a willingness to make a difference.
Set the Scene for a Generous Morning Tea
People give more when they feel connected. A welcoming atmosphere, a personal story, and even a cheeky raffle can go a long way. These are few tips to get your guests comfy and in the giving spirit.
Keep it cosy
Make your space feel warm and inviting. That could mean having a few fresh flowers on the table, bunting or signs that show you’re supporting the Cancer Council, or a sunny outdoor setting if the weather allows. Background music? Always a good idea.
Tell your why
Is there a personal reason you’re getting involved? Share it. If it’s something as difficult as having lost someone to cancer or just believe in the cause, your story will connect with people — and often, it’s what moves them to give a little more. Just make sure to tell your story in a way your guests will be comfortable.
Make donating easy
Set up a donation tin or use the Cancer Council’s online donation platform with a QR code on the day. Encourage digital payments if that’s easier for your crowd, and don’t forget to let them know what their money supports (the Cancer Council provides plenty of resources for this).
Get interactive
Consider running a mini bake-off, quiz, raffle or tea trivia to keep guests engaged. It doesn’t just make your event more fun, it’s also a great way to raise extra funds.
The Power of Guest Thank You Gifts
Now here’s where it gets really special. When guests feel appreciated, they’re more likely to go above and beyond with their giving. That’s why thank you gifts — even small ones — can be the kickstart your morning tea fundraiser needs.
Given out as tokens of thanks for coming or a little reward for the highest donor or best-dressed tea-goer, a gift goes a long way. It tells your guests something important – You’ve made a difference, and we’re grateful.
At Tastebuds, we’ve seen it in action — when hosts include a small gift in their event, donations often increase because guests feel even more invested in the cause. It’s a win-win.
Easy Gift Ideas That Support the Cause
Not sure what kind of gift to give? We’ve got you covered with our favourite guest thank you gifts that feel generous but don’t break the bank. Many of these can also be customised to include Cancer Council colours (yellow and blue) or messages of support. Just call us, and we’ll get it done for you.
Mini gift hampers
Create small hampers with gourmet goodies like cookies, chocolates, or tea sachets. Our Tastebuds Mini Treat Packs are perfect for this — beautifully packaged and easy to distribute.
Personalised tea favours
How about a custom tea blend or a little tin of loose-leaf tea with a thank you tag? Guests will think of your event every time they brew a cuppa.
Succulent plants or seed packets
These are sweet, symbolic, and budget-friendly. Plants represent growth and hope — perfect for a cancer fundraiser. Wrap them in yellow gift-wrapping paper with a blue ribbon and you’ve got an instant smile.
DIY cookie jars or mug cakes
Layer dry ingredients in a jar with a little label (“Thanks for making this morning sweeter!”) and tie with a ribbon. They’re as fun to make as they are to give.
Choccie gifts with a cause
Our Tastebuds Chocolate Bouquets are a showstopper if you’re hosting a larger event or raffle. Use them as prizes or auction items to raise even more funds. The Lilacs & Violets Chocolate Bouquet and the Ferrero Classic Chocolate Bouquet are super budget-friendly and are readily available for bulk guest thank-you gift orders anytime.
Mini Gift Packs for Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea Guests
The Pink Popcorn Goodie Box is an affordable thank you gift for your Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea Guests. The pink theme and simple, yet widely loved, snack choices are meant to be loved by kids and adults alike.
Now this Baileys Sweet Treat Box isn’t so kid-friendly. But it’s just right for your family, friends, and guests who are still, very much, kids at heart.
The drink of the adult’s adult – whisky. It’s well-loved, especially on triumphant occasions. The Chivas Whisky Gift Hamper Box is something your Morning Tea guests will take home with a happy curve on their face.
Want gifts in Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea colours? The Vodka Blue Treat Box and Love Nuts Goodie Box packs gorgeous treats, and are guaranteed to look gorgeous on the gift table.
How Gifts Could Help Double Donations
Now this is the clever part — you can actually use your thank you gifts to encourage more giving. Here’s how –
- Set donation tiers — For example, anyone who donates $10 gets a tea favour, while donations over $25 earn a mini gift hamper.
- Use gifts as raffle prizes — Sell tickets on the day and announce winners over tea and cake. Easy, effective, and fun.
- Promote gift-giving ahead of time — Let guests know they’ll be thanked with a special treat for their donation (just make sure not to be too on the nose about it). It often motivates people to give more.
Even a simple gesture like a handwritten thank you note paired with a chocolate bar can create a lasting impression — and a desire to support again next year.
Let’s Make It Your Biggest Morning Tea Yet
Doesn’t matter if you’re a first-time host or a seasoned tea party planner, remember — it’s little magical details that create big impact. A smile at the door, a thoughtful story, a cuppa shared with care, and a little thank you gift to show how much you appreciate every dollar raised.
At Tastebuds, we’re here to help you celebrate, connect and give back. If you’d like help choosing guest gifts for your Morning Tea in 2025, we’ve got a full range of customisable hampers, sweet treats and chocolate bouquets to suit any budget. Plus, we offer bulk and corporate orders so your planning is as stress-free as possible.
After all, you’re not just hosting a tea — you’re helping fund vital research, support families in need, and bring hope to countless Aussies affected by cancer.
So go on — put the kettle on, share some cake, and thank your guests with class. Let’s make Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea in 2025 one to keep them coming back every year – till cancer becomes history.
Ready to spread the love and double your donations?
Call us and have custom guest thank you gifts and Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea fundraising packs built to your needs only at Tastebuds.com.au — or chat with us for more personalised suggestions!
