A group of young girls have signed up for this month’s Macleay Valley Relay for Life event.
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The 17 girls are in Years 7 to 12 at Kempsey High School and will be accompanied by their teachers Rowena Gilbett and Liz McMahon when they camp out at the Kempsey Showground at 2pm on Saturday March 12 until 9am the following day.
The Relay involves teams of up to 15 who keep a baton moving in a relay-style walk or run through the night to raise vital funds for the NSW Cancer Council.
Ms Gilbett said she put the idea forward to the girls who are involved in her after school fitness program ‘Strong Girls’ after being approached by deputy principal Sue Tassell. The fitness program incorporates cardio and strength training with positive body image classes, plus teamwork and leadership building workshops.
“Sue suggested we take part as it ties in really well with the program,” Miss Gilbett said.
“When I asked the girls they loved the idea and are really excited to be part of it. I wanted to start incorporating volunteer work into the program as I think it is really valuable.”
As part of their fundraising efforts, the girls will sell $2 raffle tickets and hope to raise a minimum of $1000 for the Cancer Council.
Raffle prizes include tickets for two to the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour for ice skating and a Water Park pass, restaurant vouchers, a scooter and hamper packs.
Tickets for the group’s raffle can be purchased from Kempsey High’s front office or from any student participating in the Relay for Life. Tickets will also be sold at the Relay.
Ms Gilbett said she hoped the community would support the girls fundraising efforts or consider participating in the Relay.
“I think everyone’s life has been touched by cancer or most people can relate in some way,” she said.
“It’s good to see the Kempsey/Macleay community coming together for the Relay. It’s really great to see positive events like this one happening in Kempsey. There needs to be more of it.”
Cancer Council’s community relations coordinator Pippa Tablone said supporting the Relay for Life ensures that 100 per cent of Macleay Valley schools and childcare centres are sun smart accredited.
n For those who would like more information about the Relay for Life, such as how to get involved or what is happening on the day/night, head along to an information night on Wednesday March 9 at the Kempsey-Macleay RSL Club at 5.30. You can also register or donate now by going to: fundraising.cancer.org.au/macleay2016.
