Relay For Life gives hope to 27,000 Queenslanders affected by cancer

Queenslanders are being asked to put their foot down, one after the other, when it comes to the fight against cancer.

Cancer Council Queensland is officially launching Relay For Life season two events this week – encouraging regions to lace up and team up to give hope for a cancer free future.

There are 25 Relay For Life events set to be held across the state from July to November for season two, right from Weipa down to Warwick.

Relay For Life is an 18-hour event involving teams keeping a baton moving in a relay-style walk or run overnight, all in an effort to raise funds for the one in two Queenslanders affected by cancer in their lifetime.

Cancer Council Queensland CEO Ms Chris McMillan encouraged locals to rally together to reduce the burden of cancer across the state.

“One person is diagnosed with cancer every 20 minutes in Queensland – that’s more than 27,000 people diagnosed each year,” Ms McMillan said.

“Taking the first step towards a cancer free future is as easy as registering to take part in your local Relay For Life event and fundraising for the cause.

“With a range of fun and entertaining activities on offer, to emotional and empowering ceremonies, Relay for Life truly is an experience not to be missed, and we encourage people of all ages and fitness levels to join in.”

In 2017, Cancer Council Queensland hopes to raise more than $3.5 million through Relay for its work in cancer research, education programs and patient support services.

“You might not think that walking the track for 18 hours or donating a few dollars makes a big difference – but it does,” Ms McMillan said

“Together, 8035 Relay For Life participants have raised close to $1 million this year for Cancer Council Queensland’s vital work in cancer control.

“To each and every person who took to the track or donated to one of our 10 events in season one – we thank you.

“With continuing high levels of community support across season two, we hope to raise even more for all Queenslanders, all cancers.

“Get your friends, family, colleagues and neighbours together and give hope at Relay For Life.”

To register a team, volunteer, or find out more, visit www.relayforlife.org.au or phone 1300 65 65 85.

Cancer Council Queensland is an independent, community-based charity, the achievements of which are made possible by the generosity of Queenslanders.

More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available via 13 11 20 or cancerqld.org.au.

Season 2 Relay For Life events:

Weipa, July 22-23
Gladstone, July 29-30
Cairns, July 29-30
Redcliffe, August 5-6
Bundaberg, August 12-13
Pioneer Valley, August 12-13
Central Highlands, August 19-20
Lockyer Valley, August 19-20
Border Rivers/Goondiwindi, August 19-20
Red Dirt, September 2-3
Dalby, September 9-10
Southern Downs/Warwick, September 9-10
Townsville, September 16-17
Gold Coast, September 16-17
Burdekin, October 7-8
Jimboomba, October 7-8
South Burnett/Kingaroy, October 7-8
Cassowary Coast, October 7-8
Whitsundays, October 21-22
Brisbane Corporate & Community, October 21-22
Moranbah, October 28-29
Tablelands, October 28-29
Hervey Bay, October 28-29
Northern Gold Coast, October 28-29
Gympie, October 28-29

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