General News
20 February, 2026
Relay this weekend
LARGE crowds are expected to line the oval at Deakin University tomorrow afternoon for this year’s Relay for Life event.
The charity walk, which will see teams walk laps around the oval from 12 noon through until 10.30pm on Saturday, has become a highlight on many calendars across the district.
Event organiser Jodie Carey said 28 teams (incorporating more than 300 walkers) had pre-registered for the event, with a combined fundraising goal of $60,000.
“We have already raised just over $35,000 in the lead up to tomorrow (Saturday) so I’m confident we can reach our end goal,” Jodie said.
“We have a committee of 19 and they’ve all worked really hard over the last 12 months to ensure tomorrow is a success.
“We have a great team and a great line-up of entertainment for the day.”
Matt Sell will once again be MC for the event and several talented local musicians will perform throughout the day.
“Along with our wonderful musicians, we will also have karate and whip cracking demonstrations, PhysiPole, therapy dogs, face painting and the Emmanuel College students will also have some entertainment.”
Jodie’s son Lenny, and fellow year 12 student at Emmanuel College Lucy Shiells, will be among the walkers tomorrow.
Lenny, who has been supporting his family since a baby, now takes part in memory of his nan who was “suddenly taken away by this relentless disease.”
“My nan was a strong individual with great values and always did good for the community,” Lenny said.
“Mum does a great job as the Warrnambool event coordinator and it’s great to help out where I can.
“Cancer affects everyone, whether directly or indirectly, and I believe that every little bit counts to help fight back against it.”
Lenny said while cancer takes many lives each year, it also brings people together as a community and teaches messages about life and how lucky we really are.
This weekend will be Lucy’s first Relay for Life event and one she is looking forward to.
“Part of my reason for being involved is in memory of my aunt, who I lost to cancer when I was very young, and for the other incredible fighters around me who have been touched by this disease,” she said.
“Although my memories of my aunt are limited, I know she would have loved to have been part of an event like this.
“I see reminders of her often and think about her regularly; I will walk to honour the legacy of her while holding hope for a future where fewer families have to experience this loss.”
Lucy said she also wanted to recognise the carers and healthcare workers whose unwavering support and tireless work make such a difference to those affected by cancer.
An estimated 230 people are diagnosed with cancer in the Warrnambool region each year.
Relay for Life raises funds for Cancer Council’s vital research, prevention and support services
It also empowers communities to come together to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones and fight back against cancer.
On average more than 134,000 participants take part in Relay for Life events nationally, raising around $14 million each year.
Saturday’s Warrnambool event will kick off with an emotional opening ceremony and first lap at 12 noon.
An afternoon tea for carers will take place at 1.30pm (with guest speaker Vicki Jellie who will discuss the progress of Peter’s Project), a candlelight ceremony will be held at dusk and the final teams lap with be around 10.15pm.
Anyone wishing to make a donation can simply head to https://www.relayforlife.org.au/fundraisers/WARRNAMBOOLWEEKLY7842
