WESTERN Australia’s biggest relay event has found a new home in the western suburbs.
The annual 24-hour Relay for Life is making the move to Claremont Showgrounds on May 5.
More than 30,000 participants have raised more than $9 million for Cancer Council WA since 2001, funding research, education and support services.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOWAlong with a new venue, there is a new chair for Relay’s volunteer committee with Con Polkinghorne taking the reins.
“When I first joined Relay, I’d not directly been affected by cancer, although I had work colleagues who had lost friends and family members,” he said.
“That all changed 12 months ago, when a very close friend who I’ve known since primary school was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer.
“Fortunately, she has been able to beat it after a significant amount of treatment; however, the experience has been trying for her, her family and close friends.”
Mr Polkinghorne said the move to Claremont Showgrounds from HBF Stadium was the start of an exciting new era for Relay, with the committee hoping for more registrations than ever.
“Relay is such an incredibly unique event; the congregation of more than 1500 people for a full 24 hours, all with a common goal of remembering loved ones we’ve lost to cancer, supporting those currently fighting and celebrating our cancer survivors and carers is a very special and powerful thing to be part of,” he said.
Previous chair Betty Cottrell said the money raised had made a significant impact for West Australians.
“The money you’re donating lets people live longer and have a better quality of life,” she said.
Ninety teams are currently registered for this year’s Relay and are aiming to raise more $380,000 for Cancer Council WA.
Along with the relay and candlelight ceremony, there will be family entertainment, a silent disco, free Zumba and yoga, food trucks, live music and more throughout the event.
To find out more, visit relayforlife.org.au.
MORE: Man in critical condition after Melville motorcycle crash
MORE: Live sheep export: Federal Agriculture Minister announces review into export trade
MORE: Opa! Perth Glendi Greek Festival gets new home at Elizabeth Quay