8417 reasons why Coomera Anglican College continues Relay For Life spirit

COVID-19 may have changed the way Relay For Life events look this year, but it didn’t alter Coomera Anglican College (CAC) students’ determination to get involved.

CAC are longstanding supporters of Cancer Council Queensland’s iconic Relay For Life campaign and the highest fundraising team in Northern Gold Coast.  Year 12 students were eager to continue the tradition in 2020 and adapt to the restrictions placed on events, to ensure the safety of the school and wider community.

“Although we didn’t have the normal amount of people or overnight component of the event, the Year 12 students had the opportunity to enjoy activities including Zumba, a barbeque and the collection of beads for each lap of the oval,” said College Service Prefect, Abbie Rees.

The mini relay took place on school grounds on 17 September and raised an amazing $8417 for cancer research, prevention programs and support services.  The event included traditional components of Relay For Life such as the much-loved Candlelight Ceremony, where students had the opportunity to dedicate a candle to loved ones affected by cancer.

College Captains Kyrra Wilks and Christopher Airey explained that many events and activities their grade would usually enjoy in the last year of high school have been put on hold in 2020.

“Fortunately, Relay for Life gave us the opportunity to come together as a cohort, relax, have fun and enjoy spending time together whilst showing our support in the fight against cancer.”

The students received overwhelming support from their wider school community, with parents and staff eager get involved, donate and show encouragement for the event.

CAC Teacher Mr Elton Stirling has been involved with Relay For Life since 2008 and commends the students on their commitment to the cause, saying “we are really proud of our passionate Year 12 students.”

Cancer Council Queensland CEO Ms Chris McMillan thanked CAC for their dedication to fundraising on behalf of the charity.

“3944 people are diagnosed with cancer every year on the Gold Coast,” said Ms McMillan.

“Cancer Council Queensland are committed to reducing this figure, and the support of school communities such as CAC is critical to our mission.

“This year, Relay For Life looked very different, but we still managed to raise vital funds for lifesaving cancer research projects, prevention programs and support services.

“Thank you to everyone who continued the Relay tradition in 2020, gathering safely to celebrate, remember, and fight back against cancer.”