Yarrabilba unites to stop cancer in its tracks

An exciting first for our community, Yarrabilba’s Relay for Life event raised more than $21,000 for the Cancer Council as 20 teams hit the track to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost and help save more lives with cancer awareness.

Local competing team, Hope Hippies raised more than $6,900 for cancer research, inspired by loved ones and family members who had been affected by cancer.

Team captain Bernice Boucher said her group marked an impressive milestone this year, having competed in Relay for Life events for 10 years.

“Our team first got involved in the event as we wanted to get behind an important cause. But since then, we’ve individually been affected by cancer in one way or another. My Dad was diagnosed with cancer, and I lost my son five years ago at 33 years of age,” she said.

“Relay for Life really is a personal event for each individual taking part. It can be walking the track to mourn the loss of someone dear or celebrate cancer survivors.

“The event is a great chance to educate the younger generation on early detection and create more awareness around cancer. My sister’s grandchildren took part in the relay, one even walked 50 laps. It is really a team effort and I’m thankful to all our team members who took part.”

The Yarrabilba Relay for Life 2021 took place at San Damiano College, Yarrabilba on Saturday, 23 October from 2pm-9pm. The event involves teams of people keeping a baton moving in a relay style walk or run for 7 hours in support for those affected by cancer.