Fundraiser shines a light on cancer

Many walkers took on the traditional route from Urquhart Bluff to the Aireys Inlet Lighthouse. Photos: SUPPLIED

MORE than 400 people shone a light on cancer throughout the month of January, raising more than $22,000 for the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute (FECRI).

The 2025 Lighthouse Classic saw participants walk or run 12km to raise funds for cancer research.

Many took on the traditional walking route from Urquhart Bluff to Aireys Inlet Lighthouse, while others walked in Barwon Heads, and even abroad.

FECRI in Ballarat is Australia’s only regionally based cancer research centre and aims to help patients with a broad range of cancers.

Walks took place all over the region, including in Barwon Heads.

The late Janet Jones founded the event. She began supporting FECRI in the early 1990s and worked closely with the organisation during her 33-year battle with the illness.

Her son Harry said the 2025 edition of the Lighthouse Classic was one of the best yet.

“A huge thank you to everyone who took part this year – whether you walked solo, with family, or in small groups, it was incredible to see our community come together in support of cancer research.

More than 400 people shone a light on cancer during the month of January for the Lighthouse Classic

“Your participation and generosity helped fund vital research through the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, bringing us closer to better treatments and a brighter future.”

While the event looked a little different this year without the big group walk, the spirit of the Lighthouse Classic remained strong.

“From all of us at the Lighthouse Classic – thank you for walking, remembering and making a difference,” Harry said.

For more information, head to @lighthouseclassicau on Instagram.