In a heartfelt effort to raise funds and awareness for cancer research, the University of Wollongong (UOW) has hosted Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea.
The event brought together students, staff, and community members who rallied together for the cause of fighting cancer and supporting those affected by the disease.
Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea is the Cancer Council Australia’s most popular fundraising event and the largest, most successful event of its kind in Australia.
Cancer Council representative Melania Schuller Tate said that the funds raised during the event supported cancer-related initiatives.
“One of our primary focuses is cancer research,” said Ms Schuller Tate.
“Last year alone, we invested $18.2 million dollars in research to reduce the impact of cancer and strive for a cancer-free future.
“This research funding is the highest among non-government organisations in Australia.”
Beyond research, Cancer Council New South Wales also provides practical support to those affected by cancer. This includes services such as transportation to cancer treatments through the Transport to Treatment program. With a fleet of 29 vehicles and a team of 250 trained drivers.
“Our Transport to Treatment service vehicles run Monday to Friday,” Ms Schuller Tate said.
“It’s a direct door to door service.
“So basically, someone who needs to attend chemotherapy or radiotherapy or an appointment with their oncologist can book into that service.”
The Cancer Council also operates accommodation facilities like the Cure Lodge in Wollongong, where cancer patients and their families can stay during treatment. This allows loved ones to remain close and provides support during a paitents time of need.
The UOW event featured various activities and attractions, including raffles, silent auctions, and lucky draws. Generous donations from local businesses and community partners made these prizes possible, with raffle items worth over $1,000 dollars. Local establishments such as Praha Cafe Uni Bar, Subway, Aspire Cafe, Gypsy Jones, Hemingway, The Beauty Collective, Uni Hair and Beauty all contributed to the cause.
The fundraising record for 2022 reached an impressive $2,500 dollars, and this year’s goal was set even higher at $3,500 dollars.
UOW Pulse member Jaimee Evans said the event is always popular.
“So $3,500 dollars is on the cards for this year,” Ms Evans said.
“If people still want to donate they can visit the Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, UOW Pulse donation online platform.”
As the morning tea concluded, attendees left with a sense of fulfilment, knowing that their contributions had directly impacted the lives of cancer patients and aid in ongoing cancer research efforts.