Relay for Life returns

RELAY for Life is heading back to Geelong following last year’s virtual event.

Since 2000, the Geelong-based relay has attracted more than 25,000 participants and raised more than $4.3 million as a part of the world’s largest fundraising event for cancer.

The race for research will take place on October 9 at St Albans Reserve in Thompson.

Despite typically being a 24-hour event, this year participants will be starting at 11.45am and running or walking with their team until 10pm in support of those who have been affected by the illness.

Geelong Relay for Life committee member Anne Miller said all members of the community can get involved in the event through entering or joining a team or by simply donating.

“We have grandmas, grandpas, newborn babies, we even had someone who got married that afternoon pop in on the way to their reception,” she said.

“The money raised goes towards the vital and internationally recognised work of Cancer Council Victoria for research, prevention and support.

“In 2019 approximately 35,000 Victorians were diagnosed with cancer with over 11,000 in the Greater Geelong region.

“Cancer does not just affect one person, it affects the whole community, so it is important to come along and learn about what is available through the Cancer Council Victoria which is pretty amazing.”

The Geelong Relay for Life will be the only local event taking place in 2021, following the cancellation of the Torquay-based relay.

Surf Coast Relay for Life chairman Bob Tyler said the March event was set to take place weeks after the 2021 snap lockdown.

“In 2020 COVID-19 came the day we were due to have the event,” he said.

“This year the Cancer Council Victoria cancelled ours and about five others because COVID-19 was still a major point around Victoria.”

Usually hosted on the Polwarth Oval, the event has been unable to take place for the last two years and while Mr Tyler is hoping for a 2022 return nothing has been organised as of yet.

“We are trying to get as many people involved in the Geelong relay, then we will see what happens,” he said.

On the day participants can expect plenty of entertainment with an afternoon tea for carers and survivors, and performances by Dan the Magic Man as well as local artists.

“It is a two-way thing, the first part is the fundraising, but the second part is about the community together to support each other,” Ms Miller said.

“I always encourage people to come along and once you do, you will be hooked.”

Team Registrations are now open to get involved head to relayforlife.org.au or contact Bec McLarty from Cancer Council Victoria on 0487 700 509.