The year was 1985 and colorectal surgeon, Dr. Gordy Klatt, wanted to raise awareness of cancer and boost the income of his local cancer charity. He spent a gruelling twenty-four hours circulating a track in Tacoma, Washington, and raised over US$27,000, and showed that one person really can make a difference.
Australia first saw what is now known as Relay For Life in 1999 where the community of Murrumbeena raised over $75,000 for Cancer Council.
The City of Logan Relay For Life started its life of as Beenleigh Relay For Life in 2014 and has been growing each year. This year on May 18 at Dauth Park in Beenleigh, teams will gather to walk all through the night.
The relay is important for so many reasons to the people involved. Not only is it a huge fundraiser for Cancer Council Queensland, but it also gives people and families time to remember their loved ones who may have passed, friends or family fighting it now and just a time to be with people who understand what they have or are going through.
Event organiser Katie Hoppe said this year’s theme is “Lights, Camera, Cure,” which is a movie theme.
“There will be live entertainment, food trucks, fireworks and more. Currently over 23 teams are registered to fight back, with over $18,000 raised and growing.
“It’s free to visit on the night between 3pm-10pm to enjoy the entertainment, fireworks and support the on-site fundraising.”
As with so many community events in the Beenleigh area, Club Beenleigh has been backing this event throughout the year with fundraising opportunities.
Last year a number of councillors and members of parliament stopped by the relay and this year will be no different. Acting Mayor Cherie Dalley will be in attence along with the Patron of the event, Councillor Jennie Breene.
“It’s a great community event, run and organised by a volunteer committee who are all passionate about making a difference in our community,” said Katie.
Registered participants get to camp out under the stars, receive a Relay t-shirt, hot breakfast and the registration fee goes straight to the fundraisers tally. Registration for City of Logan Relay For Life can be done online at relayforlife.org.au or on the day. You can also find them on Facebook where you can keep up to date on everything Relay.
