Members of the local community have been urged to show they care about Queenslanders affected by cancer by registering for Cancer Council’s 2017 Relay For Life.
Funds raised go directly into supporting those impacted by cancer in local communities, with 11 events set to take place between April and June and 13 events in the second half of the year.
Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift said community support was vital to continue Relay For Life’s fight against cancer.
“Relay is the only community event of its kind in Queensland, uniting friends and family in the fight against cancer,” Ms Clift said.
“It’s an event for all ages and a great way for businesses and community groups to develop team loyalty for a good cause.
“We’re calling on all Queenslanders to register now simply by going online to sign-up for your local Relay.”
The 18-hour overnight event invites people to team up and raise funds for cancer research and services.
“Relay is more than just a fundraiser, it’s a community carnival for a great cause, supporting survivors and raising awareness of ways to beat the disease,” Ms Clift said.
“In Queensland, one person is diagnosed with cancer every 20 minutes – Relay For Life is reaching out to help them.
“In 2016 Relay helped to raise $3.35 million for lifesaving research and services, but we need ongoing funding to keep improving cancer survival in Queensland.”
In 2016 nearly 20,000 Queenslanders took part in 44 Relay For Life events statewide.
“We currently have more than 700 participants already registered for 2017, but need many more participants to get involved and show they care,” Ms Clift said.
“Each donation, no matter how big or small, helps fund our work and in turn, provides vital support and care for Queenslanders diagnosed with cancer.
“Last year as a result of community involvement in Relay For Life we were able to offer cancer patients and their loved ones a comprehensive range of practical, emotional, and informational support.
“With continuing high levels of community support in 2017, we hope to raise even more for all Queenslanders, all cancers.”
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.
Locals can register via relayforlife.org.au or by calling 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.
Confirmed 2017 Season 1 Relay For Life events:
Sarina Relay For Life, April 1
Miles & District Relay For Life, April 29
Redland City Relay For Life, April 29
Maryborough Relay For Life, May 6
Mackay Relay For Life, May 13
Toowoomba Relay For Life, May 20
Rockhampton Relay For Life, May 20
Kawana Relay For Life, May 20
City of Ipswich Relay For Life, May 27
Ingham Relay For Life, May 27
Redcliffe Relay For Life, May 27
Dates for Season 2 will be announced soon.
For more information or interviews, please contact:
Senior Media Advisor,
Cancer Council Queensland
Phone: (07) 3634 5171
Mobile: 0488 015 702