THE efforts of a group of men and women raising funds for cancer research have been recognised with a research award named after the group.
For the past nine years, the Kerang Happy Hour group has raised more than $95,000 for cancer research and support through numerous events.
In recognition of the group’s efforts, Cancer Council Victoria has created the Happy Hour Research Award.
University of Melbourne researchers, Dr Jake Shortt and Professor Ricky Johnstone received the inaugural award, which will be used to research the treatment of leukaemia and lymphoma in people of all ages.
“We are very grateful to the businesses of Kerang, the people of Kerang and district and the Kerang Football Club because without their support, this fund-raising would not have been possible,” Happy Hour team member, Cheryl Beale said.
“Donations of good and people volunteering their time enable us to clear profits.”
The group formed in 2007 to honour the memory of Mrs Beale’s daughter, Nerida, who died in 2006 after being diagnosed with cervical cancer three years earlier.
Numerous events have been held since, including trivia nights, collections at football matches and schools, pampering nights, pink days and the group’s largest event – the Red Lily Walkathon.
The walk has been held annually since 2008 – except for 2011 due to the district’s floods – with Riverside Park hosting the fund- raiser for the past three years.
This year’s walkathon will occur on Sunday, May 15, with balloons to be released in honour of loved ones before those taking part complete laps of the reserve’s main football oval.
All funds raised through registration, the purchase of balloons, raffles and the selling of food and drink will donated to Cancer Council Victoria.
Participants are asked to wear red. Forms are available from Husk Street and Surf, as well as NewsXpress Kerang.
