Preparations are already underway to ensure the 2024 Newcastle Relay For Life is the biggest and best yet.

And, in familiar settings, the Cancer Council NSW community fundraiser will return next year as an overnight event at Glendale.

Teams of friends, families and colleagues, as well as individuals, can take turns walking around the track at the Hunter Sports Centre on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 May.

The gesture signifies that cancer never stops… and neither do the participants as they attempt to accumulate funds to find a cure.

“Everyone’s welcome at Newcastle Relay For Life, no matter age or ability,” a Cancer Council NSW spokesperson said.

“Just pop on some yellow and purple – and give it a go, whether you walk, jog, run, wheel or dance, it’s up to you.

“Thousands of Australians have already joined this year’s movement to show that, united, we are stronger than cancer.

“Organised by passionate local volunteers, it’s an experience that will stay with you forever.”

The family-friendly program also includes entertainment, markets, food stalls, kids’ activities and more.

“Newcastle Relay For Life is designed for a number of reasons,” the spokesperson said.

“One, we get the opportunity to celebrate cancer survivors; two, recognise the brilliant carers; and, three, honour those who we’ve lost during a candlelight remembrance ceremony.

“Also, as a community, we’ll continue to raise funds to support people affected by the disease, for research and prevention.

“Thanks to Relay For Life, more than 61,000 Australian lives have been saved over the past 20 years.

“Improvements in cancer prevention and screening mean that less people will hear the words ‘you have cancer’, with advanced treatments giving patients additional time with their loved ones.

“Newcastle and Hunter supporters have played a huge part in this.

“And, by continuing to participate in Relay For Life, we will save more lives and assist Cancer Council NSW’s vital work.”

Here’s what you can expect at Newcastle Relay For Life:

• Survivors of cancer and their carers are the heart of every relay, so each one begins with a lap around the track in their honour
• In between laps, experience all the activities you can enjoy such as entertainment from local performers, market stalls, competitions and games for the whole family
• At sunset, organisers light up the darkness in memory of those we’ve lost during the candlelight ceremony
• Inspiring speakers give hope for a cancer-free future by sharing their stories and important updates about the advancements in Cancer Council NSW’s work
• To mark the end of the event, a closing ceremony takes place that celebrates the incredible achievements and motivates participants to continue the fight against cancer

So, sign up for Newcastle Relay For Life today at www.relayforlife.org.au

For more community stories:

• Brave Mackenzie cherishing every ‘monster’ moment
• Soul Origin tickled pink to start a breast cancer conversation
• Christmas Under the Stars returning to King Edward Park

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