14 MAY 2025 | ISSUE 572 | FREE
GOULBURN RIVER & RANGES
Seymour Sees Pink
Celebrating Sarah’s Day and the Mother’s Day Classic This past weekend, Seymour was beautifully transformed into a sea of pink, as the community gathered for two significant events, ‘Sarah’s Day’ on Saturday and the ‘Mother’s Day Classic’ on Sunday. Sarah’s Day, organised by the Seymour Football Netball Club, was a heartfelt high tea dedicated to Sarah Locke and all those in our community affected by breast cancer. This sixth annual fundraiser aimed to raise essential funds for Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA), helping to support families navigating the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis. As attendees came together for delicious treats and glasses of Prosecco, the event was not only a celebration of life but also a testament to the strength of our community. The day featured raffles and spirited fundraising activities that highlighted the importance of camaraderie in the face of adversity. Just a day later, the momentum continued as over 300 locals gathered at Lions Park for the annual Mother’s Day Classic. Participants walked and ran in honor of loved ones who have bravely battled breast and ovarian cancer, including Madi and Loz’s mum, Phil’s mum, and Ebony’s nan. For many, this event was a deeply personal tribute, bringing together memories of those lost and celebrating the resilience of survivors. The Mother’s Day Classic has a rich history since its inception in 1998, when Mavis Robertson AM and Louise Davidson AM were inspired to create a breast cancer fun run after witnessing a similar event overseas. By 1998, over 3,000 Australians had come together to raise crucial funds for research and awareness. Today, this inspiring event unites more than 1.7 million attendees across the nation, and over its 27 years, it has raised an astounding $47.3 million for breast and ovarian cancer research. Festivities at the Mother’s Day Classic in Seymour were vibrant, with the Mitchell Shire Concert Band providing uplifting music, while the tantalizing aroma of the Rotary Club's sausage sizzle filled the air. The atmosphere was electric, charged with smiles and laughter as the community rallied together, united in purpose. It was a moment of joy, yet underscored by the solemn reminder of the work still needed to combat these diseases. Participants took solace in knowledge gained from research, the fiveyear survival rate for breast cancer has impressively increased from 84% to 92% over the years. However, the reality for ovarian cancer is starkly different, with a survival rate lingering at just 49%. This critical distinction emphasises why events like these are not only meaningful but vital in advancing our fight for healthier futures. A huge thank you is owed to the incredible Adele Deverell and her dedicated team of volunteers for their tireless work in bringing the Mother’s Day Classic to life. Their efforts, along with support from local groups like the Pucka Pookies and Mitchell Leisure Services, who collectively raised over $10,000, demonstrate the immense power of community action. Reflecting on the success of Sarah’s Day and the Mother’s Day Classic, we are reminded of the profound impact these events have on our lives, they embody our collective love, our shared grief, and our enduring hope. As we continue this journey together, let us celebrate those we’ve lost and fight alongside those still in the battle against breast and ovarian cancer. So here’s to Sarah’s Day, the Mother’s Day Classic, and to the memories we hold dear. Together, we stand as a united community, vibrant in our purpose and unwavering in our determination to create a future free from the shadow of these diseases.