Community
26 June, 2026
Overnight Relay for 2027
WARRNAMBOOL’S Relay for Life event will return to an overnight format in 2027.
Committee chair Jodie Carey has this week announced that next year will see a return to the popular overnight format, with the event scheduled to run from 6pm on Friday, February 12 through to 10am Saturday, February 13.
The last overnight relay in Warrnambool was held in 2019 and Jodie is confident its return will also lead to even more teams and participants in 2027.
“Cancer Council Victoria, in its business plan, was keen to return to the traditional overnight format and in response to community feedback it has opted to do so,” Jodie said.
“It will be great to see this format return to Warrnambool next year; we’re all really excited.”
With one in two lives affected by cancer, everyone has a reason to get on track and take part in Relay for Life.
Relay for Life is a fun and often emotional experience that raises vital funds for the Cancer Council.
The event first began in the United States in May 1985 by colorectal surgeon, Dr Gordy Klatt, who spent a gruelling 24 hours circulating a track in Washington and raised over US$27,000.
Since then it has become the largest fundraising event for cancer in the world.
Relay for Life began in Australia in 1999 and, to date, more than 135,000 participants have raised over $14 million each year.
Every dollar raised goes towards funding Cancer Council’s vital research, prevention and support programs – many of which help people in our local community every day.
“Once again the candlelight ceremony will begin at dusk and those candles will continue to light our path right through the night which will be very special,” Jodie said.
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The overnight relay has also gained the ongoing support of Deakin University, which will once again host the event.
“Deakin has been amazing in its support of Relay for Life and for that we’re very appreciative,” Jodie said.
This will be Jodie’s fourth year at the helm and again she has a hard working team of volunteer committee members working alongside her to organise next year’s relay.
“Fundraising for the Cancer Council is something so many people are passionate about and this (the relay) is a great way to do so; it not only raises funds and awareness but it’s also a lot of fun and brings the community together with a common goal.
“Last February we had 26 teams and raised around $75,000 so we’re hoping to have even bigger numbers next year. Being an overnighter, rather than running all day Saturday, means it doesn’t interfere with most weekend sport so hopefully that will attract even more people.”
While plans for the 2027 relay are still in their infancy, with the organising committee set to meet in August, it is anticipated the Warrnambool event will have its official opening at 6pm on February 12.
The candlelight ceremony will take place at dusk, with closing proceedings to start around 9.30am Saturday.
“It will finish by 10am Saturday, allowing people to also relax and enjoy the rest of their weekend,” Jodie said.
“We are now looking for food vendors and entertainment to again add to the atmosphere.
“Anyone interested in this can contact the team at the Warrnambool Weekly who will pass on your details.”
