A SPOOKY but fun-filled night is set to boost numbers for next year’s Relay for Life Mount Gambier fundraiser after the 2018 attendance dipped by almost half compared to 2016.
This Sunday will mark the launch of the biannual commemorative event, which is expected to raise over $150,000 for the Cancer Council Foundation.
With only around 23 teams competing last year compared to the average of 50, team coordinator Maxine Tuffnell said the switch from Saturday to Friday night would hopefully increase numbers.
“Next year’s event will run on Friday, March 13 so we are adding an elements of Halloween and fun,” Ms Tuffnell said.
“We have had some teams who have completed since it first began 10 years ago and they said it felt as though it had lost its way.
“We want to bring back the spark and continue making it a community event people look forward to.”
Ms Tuffnell said the fundraiser also brought people together who had been personally touched by cancer.
“This event allows others know there are people there for them if they need,” she said.
“It is hard to find somebody who has not been affected by cancer whether it themselves, relatives or just through somebody they know.
“It definitely makes a difference for those who may be struggling.”
Social media and entertainment coordinator Kellie Argent said the event helps raise funds for Cancer Council lodges, which are accessed by Limestone Coast patients.
“The facilities are not just for people who are recovery from cancer but for other chronically ill patients as well,” Ms Argent said.
“They help everybody and thousands of South East residents use them every week.”
Ms Tuffnell said the lodges were always open and fully-booked so it was hard for upgrades and maintenance to occur.
“If you speak with anybody who had to travel for medical treatment they will say they would not be able to cope without the lodges,” Ms Tuffnell said.
“We would love to continue to see people contributing to such a wonderful cause.
“I think it makes people feel useful and allows them to make a difference in their own way.”
The fundraising stalwart said anyone was able to participate in the event no matter their level of fitness.
“It is not a fitness event, you can stroll around and talk to each other if you wish,” Ms Tuffnell said.
“The idea is to have at least one member of your team walking the track so it can be lots of fun.”
Ms Argent said every dollar counted, urging the community to become involved and donate to the cause.
“We urge people to register for the event as soon as they can to start fundraising early,” she said.
“There is a rough guideline of fundraising around $100 per person but if you do not make it, it is not as if you will not be able to participate.
“We would love to see as many people as we can there on the night and make it as big as it has been in the past.”
Sunday’s launch will be held from 4pm at the Mount Gambier Community RSL.
With already five registered teams, the 2020 event on March 13 will be the 10th year it has been held in Mount Gambier.
