Outback Sleepers Raise Funds for Cancer Council SA

Outback Sleepers Australia are pleased to report the Relay For Life event - 'Fight Back' against cancer was an overwhelming success. With over 26 teams from around the southern areas and over 400 people participating in the 19 hour 'Relay for Life' the organisers were exhilarated to announce that over $50,000 was raised towards cancer research. This amount was higher than ever anticipated and exceeded the goal the Cancer Council were aiming for.

Local Team 'Raising Hope' won a trophy for highest fundraising team with an outstanding effort of $9,000 and the other teams won various trophies for 'best mailbox', 'best baton', 'most laps' and 'individual with most laps completed'. Each team walked well over 1000 laps with a total of over 30,000 laps walked in the 19 hour timeframe.

The Outback Sleepers Team (Platinum Sponsor of the Event) did very well, especially since it was their first year to participate. Team members enjoyed a fun night of quizzing, chatting and participating in the Tug of War whilst keeping a member walking on the oval at all times. Sunday afternoon most people agreed they would be resting their aching feet and enjoying a relaxing day at home.

Outback Sleepers raised over $1400 in the weeks leading up to the relay and were proud to be of assistance to this valuable cause. Money was raised by a series of 'sausage sizzle' barbeques, chocolate box fundraisers, count the jelly beans in the jar and direct contributions. The Relay Event (19 hour walk) is a concept which symbolises 'cancer never rests' and these events are designed to raise awareness within communities. Cancer survivors and those who have been lost are acknowledged throughout the event and the very first lap was walked by a group of cancer survivors, carers and those currently fighting the disease. It is hoped the event will develop an awareness of the struggles cancer victims and their families and friends go through.

Sincere thanks go to Marlene for her role in organising the event and as liaison between event organisers and Outback Sleepers. Thanks also goes to all who contributed and all the volunteers who helped achieve this successful outcome.