House debates

Monday, 23 October 2017

Statements by Members

Barker Electorate: Relay For Life

1:47 pm

Photo of Tony PasinTony Pasin (Barker, Liberal Party) Share this | | Hansard source

I rise to speak on Relay For Life, the largest cancer fundraising event in the world. Relay For Life brings communities together to recognise and celebrate those who have overcome cancer or who are undergoing treatment, as well as the people who care for them.

As teams relay through the night, there's a chance to reflect and remember those we have lost to cancer. The event raises vital funds for Cancer Council research, prevention and support services. Relays are held all around the country throughout the year, with more than 134,000 participants raising over $24 million each and every year for the cause.

In my electorate of Barker relays are held on the Limestone Coast, in the Murraylands, in the Riverland and in Bordertown. Today I want to pay particular tribute to the Riverland Relay For Life event, held this past Saturday in Berri. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the event; with an electorate of the same size as some European countries, it's difficult to be everywhere!

With 11 teams participating, the Riverland event raised a whopping $35,000. I wish to pay particular tribute to Nancy Murdock, one of the key organisers who brought this event together. Nancy was also the team captain of Angels of Strength. This team raised a staggering $12,745. A big congratulations to all those who participated and who donated to such a successful event in the Riverland.