Community shines at Lighthouse Classic

MORE than 150 people turned out on Sunday for the third annual Lighthouse Classic to raise money for the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute in memory of event founder and Anglesea legend Janet Janes.

The greater Surf Coast community connected at Urquhart’s Bluff, walking or running the 12km course to and from the Aireys Inlet Lighthouse to help shine a light on cancer, which tragically took the life of Mrs Jones after a 33-year battle.

Janet Jones’ extended family and friends led the charge during Sunday’s Lighthouse Classic.

The Lighthouse Classic trail started at Urquhart’s Bluff and extended to the Aireys Inlet Split Point Lighthouse.

Spearheaded by Jones’ extended family and friends, the venture set off at around 9am, before arriving back at Urquhart’s Bluff after lunch, with participants seeking a cool down in the ocean upon their return.

Ms Jones’ sister Julia Balderstone said the turnout on the day was a great reminder of the amazing community spirit present on the Surf Coast.

She thanked all for their attendance and hoped locals would continue to shine a light on cancer throughout the month of January and long into the future.

The Lighthouse Classic exists to raise funds for the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute and to remember local Anglesea icon Janet Jones.

“It was a brilliant day and we were so thrilled that people had driven down to Aireys from Melbourne, the Bellarine Peninsula and from across regional Victoria as well,” she said.

“Everyone had a real united passion to support what is such an important cause.

“Janet had always wanted to have the one big walk and due to COVID restrictions it had never been possible, so to have so many people turn out on Sunday made it so special.”

Janet’s family from left, Peter Jones, Harry Jones, Lucy Jones, and Felicity Jones.

More than 150 people took part in Sunday’s community walk.

Around 360 people have registered thus far for the Lighthouse Classic, and up until the end of the month will be encouraged to shine a light on cancer by doing their own walk.

“We’ve raised $25,000 so far, but we are hoping by February to have raised $75,000 which will be able to fund another scientist at the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute,” Ms Balderstone said.

“Janet would have been absolutely thrilled with the support from family, friends and others who have been so passionate about supporting a cause that was so important to her.”

The local community can walk any time in January in the Lighthouse Classic and can register online at lighthouseclassic.gofundraise.com.au

Announcements are also set to come in the next fortnight surrounding a band night in March that will also go towards the cause.