Portarlington Demons take on Relay For Life

OLIVIA Hogan says she is taking part in this year’s Bellarine Relay For Life because it’s a great event that aims to raise vital funds for cancer research.

“Also, because some of my friends and family members have lost the battle to cancer and some are still fighting.

“What I’m really looking forward to about Relay For Life is all the activities that are planned, along with spending the 24 hours with others hoping to make a difference.”

Olivia is just one member of the Portarlington Demons team taking part in the Relay which is being held at Leopold Primary School on on Saturday October 27 and Sunday October 28 Teammate Caitlin Robertson said she was taking part in the event because she and her family had been affected by cancer multiple times.

“We have been through sad and happy times and I thought Relay For Life would be the perfect opportunity to come together and be with everyone who has experienced the same thing,” Caitlin said.

“I’m looking forward to being with family and friends to remember the ones we have lost and celebrate with the ones who have smashed this horrible sickness.”

The girls finished their netball season this year as premiers of their 17s age group, and coach Denise Alaalatoa said not only did the club facilitate their junior members with their chosen sport, but also facilitated personal growth in leadership and organisational roles, and an event like Relay For Life was perfect.

“It’s a WIN/WIN for the club and event,” Denise said.

Relay For Life is a community fundraising challenge for Cancer Council, which raises funds for cancer research, prevention, information and support.

It’s also a chance for the Bellarine community to recognise and celebrate local cancer survivors, patients and carers, and to honour and remember loved ones lost to cancer.

Teams of friends, families and colleagues raise money in the lead up to an overnight event, where team members take turns walking around a track to signify that cancer never rests, so neither do they.

The Opening Ceremony will take place on the Saturday at 3.45pm, the Candlelight Ceremony on the Saturday at 8.30pm and the Closing Ceremony on the Sunday at 12pm.

For more information, visit fundraising.cancer.org.au and search for the “Bellarine”.