Autumn 2018 Edition

It’s been a busy season for us, culminating with Relay For Life on the 24th and 25th March. We had over 1300 participants, 111 teams registered and have so far raised just over $250,000. Not quite our target of $300,000, though still an incredible amount of generosity from the local community. Once again, I was at the event and spent most of my time talking with team members and I even did a few laps to ensure I reached as many people as possible. I was amazed by those who were determined to complete the whole event solo, and the support from their other team members was critical to their success. Carrying a 30kg pack at the same time made it a mammoth effort for Hayden van der Hoek from ADFA, Foxtrot SQN 2.

We are now in the preparation phase for Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, so if you can get a few friends together for a cuppa and a great cause then please do so during May. Registrations are now open. The Cancer Council ACT fundraising team are here to help with any questions you may have.

Next month we see the nation celebrate National Volunteer Week (21st – 27th May). This year’s theme is ‘Give a little. Change a lot’. Without the contribution of our volunteers that assist us at events like Relay For Life, on Daffodil Day and within our organisation’s office environment, we couldn’t achieve much of what we do. To each and every one of you who has ever volunteered with Cancer Council ACT, my team and I say a very warm “Thank You”.

There are some big changes happening in the next few months for us here at Cancer Council ACT. We are refreshing our branding nationally and have recently launched several community service announcements about what we do – ‘Every Minute, Every Hour, Every Day’, so keep an eye out for the changes. As well, we are sorting out our cupboards, making lists and checking things twice – and it’s not even Christmas. We are on the move! More details next time.

Regards, Sandra.

Hayden van der Hoek from Team ADFA F SQ 2 led and inspired us all by dedicating his walk to his Grandfather, who he lost to cancer three years ago.  Haydon walked for 24 hours (with only the obligatory stops and hourly health checks) in full army combat uniform, carrying a full pack and a simulated 7kg rifle weighing a total of 30kgs!. 
He completed 234 laps totalling 93.6kms.  A truly amazing effort!

A big shout out to our other Relay prize winners:

Highest Fundraising Team: Bold Bandannas (raising a whopping $33,000!)
Best Dressed Campsite: McGoodies
Best Team Baton: Marching Ants
Best Team Costume: Bee Inspired

Australia's Biggest Morning Tea is Cancer Council’s most popular fundraising event and the largest, most successful event of its kind in Australia. The idea is simple, just get your friends, colleagues or community together over some tea and treats, and help to raise vital money for people affected by cancer.

Cancer Council ACT aims to help people who have finished their cancer treatment through our free Living Well after Cancer program. The free 2.5 hour program is facilitated by trained cancer survivors and includes practical information and open discussion for people who are cancer survivors, carers, family, friends and work colleagues.

In March, eighteen cancer survivors, their families and friends met at the Vikings Town Centre club in Tuggeranong for another Living Well after Cancer Program. The participants learnt about the possible changes, challenges and opportunities they may face after completing cancer treatment. As well as having the opportunity to connect with others on a similar journey, and share tips, ideas and activities to help live their life well. Once again all the feedback from the day was very positive.

Cancer Council ACT is very grateful to Vikings Town Centre for providing the venue free of charge on the day.

Cancer Council will be hosting another Living Well after Cancer Program later in the year, if you are interested in registering your interest for the next program please contact Sue West on 6257 9999 or sue.west@actcancer.org