Karen McNamara (Dobell, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

This year marks the 15th anniversary since the start of Mingara Central Coast Cancer Council's Relay for Life event. This past Saturday I joined with representatives from the Central Coast Cancer Council, volunteers, survivors, carers and families to celebrate this milestone. Over the past 15 years, the Central Coast relay has raised close to $3 million for the Cancer Council of New South Wales. This fundraising has allowed the Cancer Council to assist those in our community who are suffering from cancer. Assistance includes providing information and support to cancer patients and their families, prevention services, and funding for research and for local services. With one in two Australians diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85, this assistance makes a tremendous difference to individuals and their families as they fight cancer. The relay not only raises much needed funds; it also brings together the Central Coast community to recognise and celebrate cancer survivors, patients and their carers, and to honour and remember loved ones lost to cancer.

I would like to pay special credit to Mr John Millard, who was honoured on Saturday with the founding of the perpetual Cancer Council New South Wales-Hunter Central Coast John Millard Award. This award is fitting recognition of John's community spirit and dedication to helping others in our community who are afflicted with cancer. Congratulations to everyone involved. I look forward to once again supporting the Relay for Life, which will be held this October.

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