The Perth community has once again shown its incredible generosity and spirit, raising a record-breaking $367,000 at this year's West Coast Relay for Life event held at Arena Joondalup 25-26 October.
More than 1150 participants across 79 teams walked, ran, and camped out for 24 hours with non-stop entertainment, activities and fundraising, smashing the original $300,000 goal and achieving the highest total ever for the event in its 25-year history.
Every dollar raised helps fund Cancer Council WA's vital work in cancer research, prevention and support services, making a real difference to people facing cancer across Western Australia.
Cancer Council WA's Marketing and Fundraising Director, Alischa Wunsch, said the atmosphere across the weekend was electric.
"The event is such a wonderful demonstration of the power of community to work together to make a difference, " Ms Wunsch said.
"The camaraderie, community spirit and sheer determination on display were absolutely inspiring. To see hundreds of people come together, including survivors, carers, families, schools and local businesses, united in the fight against cancer was profoundly moving. This incredible result shows just how powerful the West Coast community is when it rallies behind a cause."
Ms Wunsch said the event, led by a dedicated committee of volunteers chaired by Pat Strahan, is now the second-highest fundraising Relay for Life in Australia.
"We're so grateful to Pat and her amazing committee who work tirelessly year-round, holding fundraisers like quiz nights and raffles, and inspiring others to get involved," she said.
The emotional highlight of the weekend was the candlelight ceremony on Saturday night, followed by the final lap around the oval led by the Sambanistas drum troupe with a moving tribute to those lost to cancer and a celebration of hope for the future.
The West Coast Relay for Life event was also attended by local MPs Anne Aly, Tom French, and Emily Hamilton, Joondalup Mayor Daniel Kingston, and WA Minister for Preventive Health, Hon Sabine Winton MLA, who presented the Best Dressed Team, Best Tent and
Baton awards. Cancer Council WA extended heartfelt thanks to the event's many volunteers, sponsors, and supporters for helping make this year's event such a success.
