United they relayed

THIS year’s Warrnambool Relay for Life event is expected to raise just on $65,000, far exceeding the expectations of organisers.

By Staff Writer

Generations gathered in Warrnambool last weekend, united in the fight against cancer for this year’s Relay for Life. Nineteen-year-old former Warrnambool College student Hannah VanZyl was honoured to lead the opening lap playing the bagpies, along with organiser Jodie Carey.

Jodie Carey and her dedicated team of volunteers said they were absolutely thrilled with Saturday’s event, which saw a large group of survivors, carers, family and friends take to the track at Deakin University, relaying from 12 noon through until 10pm.

“It was an absolutely amazing event and I cannot thank participants, sponsors and other supporters enough for their contributions,” Jodie said.

“Our team of volunteers have worked extremely hard to make this event a success and I’m proud of each and every one of them – as I am of all those who took part.

“Our tally had reached $61,800 on Saturday night so we’re very confident that will easily hit $65,000 once all money comes in from the teams.”

The walk kicked-off at noon with the cutting of the ribbon by local, Renee Lane, who bravely reflected on her own cancer journey and who also walked in memory of her husband Matt.

Breast cancer nurse Bec Hay and survivor Kerry Thompson were guest speakers during a special afternoon tea for survivors and carers while an emotional candlelight ceremony gave participants the opportunity to honour, connect, remember and celebrate the lives of loved ones while reflecting on those currently undertaking their own personal cancer journeys.

“The candlelight ceremony is always a special one; it’s lovely to see those candles burning brightly around the track in the dark,” Jodie said.

Denise Kelly and Ken Radley spoke of their journeys to date, giving a highly emotional insight into the challenges and experiences families often face.

“The weather was perfect and the atmosphere all afternoon and into the night was amazing. Our current committee are now keen to work towards our fourth relay, to be held in 2025, and we have some new volunteers coming on board which is also exciting.”

Two awards were presented on Saturday night.

The first, which went to the team that raised the most amount of money, was won by ‘Pal Carers’ who raised just over $15,000.

The second award, the ‘Spirit of Relay’ was presented to Warrnambool’s ‘Team Fluffy.’

“Team Fluffy was absolutely amazing. The team walked for their mum who, sadly, had only recently lost her battle with cancer so it was very raw for them all yet they were so brave and got out there and walked in her memory.”