A simple cup of tea will mean a whole lot more during an event later this month.
Residents across the region are being encouraged to take part in Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea to help raise vital funds for the Cancer Council.
Culminating in thousands of functions across the country on Thursday 27 May, the money raised will be used to help bring everyone closer to a cancer-free future.
While 27 May is the official date, those who can’t make it are welcome to host an event up until the end of June.
“Cancer affects people in so many ways and impacts every community in Australia,” Cancer Council’s Newcastle and the Hunter community relations coordinator Gemma Pedri said.
“With over 138,000 Australians estimated to be diagnosed with cancer this year, it’s vitally important that those affected can access suitable support services, such as Cancer Council’s 13 11 20 Information and Support Line, accommodation, counselling and peer support programs.
“Our services help Australians affected by cancer, providing vital support when they need it most and making every stage of their cancer journey easier.”
With one in every two Australians diagnosed with the disease before they are 85, most of us have been affected by it in one way or another.
That’s the driving force behind two local businesses’ dedication to the cause.
Beresfield Bowling Club has been hosting Biggest Morning Tea events since 1999, while Centennial Mandalong have been on board for the past 10 years.
“A lot of members of our club and staff know someone who has been affected by cancer, whether that is themselves or a family member or friend,” Beresfield Bowling Club’s Kathy Pridmore said.
“That’s why we host an event every year.
“Over that time we have raised more than $100,000, we raise a minimum of $5,000 a year.”
For Centennial Mandalong the event has been adapted into a Biggest Morning Barbecue for it’s staff before they begin work.
Lee-Ann Snowden, from the mining company, says all the employees rally around the fundraiser.
“Nearly everyone participates,” she said.
“It’s just an automatic thing for them, they all get behind it.
“Everyone has been touched by cancer, directly or indirectly, so it is such a worthy cause to raise funds for.
“The Cancer Council does such a good job and supports families when they need it. It would be wonderful to have a 0% cancer rate.”
To register to host an event or to donate, visit the Biggest Morning Tea website.
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