Relay for Life attracts 300 walkers

The 2015 Yass Relay For Life got under way at 10am this morning with a human (Kim Turner) horn.

The mechanical horn was repaired by the end of lap one and cancer survivors and carers began their laps (one hour in one direction and then back in the other).

Following Ken Bell’s Welcome to Country, Mayor Rowena Abbey and Cancer Council Regional Coordinator Craig Norris welcomed the 300-strong crowd to the Yass Relay for Life.

Over 300 walkers are registered to walk the 24 hour course.

The showgrounds have food stalls, community barbecues and entertainment too.

Yass Relay For Life Chairperson Mandy Reed is hopeful that $25,000 will be raised this weekend.

“Today is a joy and all about hope and community fun but 12 months of hard work have gone in to ensuring that today is possible,” she said.

Ms Reed praised the efforts of the volunteer committee who have been working on this event for the past six months. “It’s a whole community effort and really we thank the participants” stated Ms Reed.

Every year this event grows in terms of participant numbers, supporters and community involvement. “Cancer touches all of our lives and without the research we would have no survivors. This event is about ensuring that research continues and grows.”

Claire Boheme officially opened the walk, reminding the crowd of the Relay for Life Oath of a cancer-free world for future generations.

The event is running at the Yass Showgrounds until 10am Sunday, October 11.

Registrations remain open up until Sunday morning, teams and individuals are welcome to walk as few or as many laps as they like.

There are also children’s activities and live entertainment, and organisers welcome everyone; spectators or participants.

Pictured: Craig Norris, Kim Turner, Mick Broers, Sards Jamieson, Narelle Bullman, Chris Hunt, Barry O’Mara, Cathy Cooke, Edgar Morgan, Sheralee Sheeds and Mandy Reed. PHOTO: Supplied