As Relay For Life organisers amp up last-minute preparations for the final 2017 events in Queensland, local communities are being urged to throw their support behind the cause.
Already 23 Relay For Life events have been held across the state in 2017, with the 14 remaining events to be held during October.
This year more than 20,000 Queenslanders are expected to Relay for the cause, raising vital funds and awareness for Cancer Council Queensland‘s work.
From the Cassowary Coast in the far north, down to the Northern Gold Coast, and out west to Roma, hundreds of teams will keep a baton moving in a relay-style walk or run for 18 hours this month to give hope to the one in two Queenslanders diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime.
Cancer Council Queensland CEO Ms Chris McMillan called on Queenslanders to get involved in their local Relay For Life event to help change the future of cancer.
“One person is diagnosed with cancer every 20 minutes in Queensland – all of us know someone who is affected and through Relay For Life all of us can make a difference,” Ms McMillan said.
“Relay is the largest event of its kind in Queensland, providing an opportunity for communities to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost to cancer and fight back against a disease that takes too much.
“It’s a powerful overnight event for people of all ages and fitness levels, and a great way for businesses and community groups to develop team loyalty for a good cause.”
Ms McMillan said the support and dedication already shown by local communities in 2017 was truly inspiring.
“Each year our volunteer organising committees go over and beyond to ensure Relay teams are cared for, kept entertained, and have a memorable time,” Ms McMillan said.
“The teams really get stuck into their fundraising activities, and we continuously see incredible generosity from local communities.
“There are so many exciting things planned for this month – we hope more people will register and get to experience them!”
Around 13,600 participants have registered for Relay For Life events this year and Cancer Council Queensland are calling for 6,400 more people statewide to show they care.
“Join us this October as we rally together at the final Relay For Life events for 2017 and raise funds for lifesaving cancer research, prevention programs and patient support services,” Ms McMillan said.
“If you’re not planning to join a team this year, why not consider volunteering during an event for a few hours, or donating to someone you know who is participating?
“Every donation, from every Relay, every team, and every individual, helps fund our work and in turn supports those impacted by cancer in local communities.”
To register a team, volunteer or find out more, visit www.relayforlife.org.au or phone the Fundraising Hotline 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 cancerqld.org.au or 13 11 20.
October 2017 Relay For Life events
- Cassowary Coast Relay for Life, October 7-8
- Roma Relay for Life, October 7-8
- Jimboomba Relay for Life, October 7-8
- Kingaroy/South Burnett, October 7-8
- Burdekin, October 7-8
- Siena Catholic College (students only), October 20
- Whitsundays, October 21-22
- Brisbane Corporate and Community, October 21-22
- Moranbah, October 28-29
- Tablelands, October 28
- Hervey Bay, October 28-29
- Northern Gold Coast, October 28-29
- Gympie, October 28-29
- Border Rivers/Goondiwindi, October 28-29
About Relay For Life
Relay For Life first began in America in 1985 when colorectal surgeon Dr Gordy Klatt walked for 24 hours to raise funds for cancer research. Since then, Relay For Life has become one of the largest fundraising events for cancer in the world and is now held in every Australian state and territory. 2017 marks 17 years of Relay For Life in Queensland and 55 years of Cancer Council Queensland.
For more information or interviews, please contact:
Senior Media Advisor,
Cancer Council Queensland
Phone: (07) 3634 5171
Mobile: 0488 015 702