A total relay

By Kath Gannaway
$82,000 … and still counting!
There was a huge roar from the tired but elated crowd as the total amount raised in the 2011 Yarra Ranges Relay for Life was announced on Sunday morning.
More than 700 people registered, with 38 teams walking from 3pm on Saturday to 9am on Sunday at the Don Road Sporting Complex in Healesville.
The event, which has been held in Mt Evelyn for the past few years, had a welcome return to Healesville where the first Yarra Ranges event was held in 2003.
The event is an emotional rollercoaster of sadness, reflection, hope, celebration and fun.
The survivors and carers’ lap which traditionally leads off the rally, and the candlelight ceremony were incredibly moving. Banners touched on just some of the many personal stories which led people of all ages to become involved. The fantastic themes of the various teams added to the celebration, along with the fantastic live music program, games, cricket on the oval and Zumba.
Casey MP Tony Smith read the closing oath and congratulated the relayers. “You are an inspiration not only to your family and friends, but to your Yarra Ranges community,” he said.
To the Mt Evelyn-based committee whose average age is 22, he said “Don’t let anyone say we don’t have inspiring youth in our communities.”
Cancer Council Victoria Co-ordinator Lisa West was delighted with the relay, which exceeded last year’s tally in team numbers and funds raised.
“The mood was great, most people followed the sun-smart rule and were taking on the messages and people really got involved as a community,” she said.
“There were a lot of young people involved and I was also very impressed with their good behaviour,” she said.
Closing off, committee member Megan Fleming urged people to keep the money coming in.
“We should all be very, very, very proud of ourselves,” she said.
“Now go home and go to bed everyone … and take your rubbish with you,” she added.