Cancer Council Queensland’s Relay For Life has raised $3.5 million this year, with more than 23,000 Queenslanders taking up the baton at the events in the fight against cancer.
41 Relay For Life events were held across the State throughout 2015, supported by a dedicated army of volunteers, participants and sponsors.
Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift thanked supporters for giving hope to an estimated 25,000 Queenslanders diagnosed with cancer this year.
“To every person who took to the track this year to fundraise and give hope to cancer patients, survivors and their families – we thank you,” Ms Clift said.
“The dedication and generosity from Queensland communities has been outstanding and enables us to continue on our mission to beat cancer.
“Each step you take at Relay and every dollar you raise makes a difference in the lives of all Queenslanders affected by the disease.
“All fund raised are invested in CCQ’s life-saving work in cancer research, prevention and education programs, and localised patient support services.”
Relay For Life is an annual 18 hour event involving teams of up to 15 people keeping a baton moving in a relay style walk or run overnight, in support of the one in two Queenslanders diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime.
Relay For Life was introduced to Australia in 1999 and is now run in every State and territory – raising more than $23 million annually for the fight against cancer.
Ms Clift said after the success of 2015, the charity looked forward to a new season of Relay For Life events, starting in April 2016.
“We hope that Queenslanders will take up the Relay challenge in 2016 and unite for this important cause,” Ms Clift said.
“Participating in Relay For Life is a great way for ordinary Queenslanders to do extraordinary things to help those affected by the disease.”
Relay For Life 2016 registrations are now open. Queenslanders can register before December 31 to receive a special Relay For Life event bib to personalise in honour of the person they are relaying for.
To register or find out more information, visit www.relayforlife.org.au or phone the Fundraising Hotline 1300 65 65 85.
More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available at cancerqld.org.au or 13 11 20.
For radio interviews, contact:
Katie Clift, Executive Manager, Media and Spokesperson, Cancer Council Queensland
P. (07) 3634 5372 M. 0409 001 171
For more information, contact:
Laura McKoy, Senior Media Advisor, Cancer Council Queensland