Relay for Life calls for more teams

Relay for Life participant and Vietnam veteran John McCarthy show five-year-old Eadie and mum Skye some of his army memorabilia while collecting donations at The Dunes Village in North Torquay.

WITH Relay for Life just a month away from starting, people are being encouraged to form groups and start raising funds to fight cancer.

The money raised from the event goes to the Cancer Council Australia, who put the money towards research and providing treatment for people with cancer.

Surf Coast Relay for Life chair Bob Tyler said the event would appeal to people of all ages.

“Suitable for families and people of all ages, our Relay teams include community fundraising in the lead up to the main event and activities, live entertainment, music and candle lighting ceremonies overnight from Friday, March 13 until the morning of Saturday, March 14.

“The event day can be a very emotional but empowering experience, but everyone has a really great time and leave as friends.”

According to Cancer Council Australia, more than 61,000 Australians have been saved by funds raised through Relay for Life over the past 20 years.

Mr Tyler hoped people would recognise the fundraiser’s importance among competing priorities.

“Understandably, most Australians have been supporting Australia’s bushfire appeals in recent months,” he said.

“However, we hope we can encourage people in our region to also help fight cancer, one of the most insidious diseases continuing to take Australian lives.”

A Relay for Life information night will be held at Grant Pavilion in Torquay North on February 26.

People and businesses wishing to be involved in the Surf Coast Relay for Life can phone Mr Tyler on 0417 142 156.