Canberra Community Encouraged to Support Fundraising Efforts
CANBERRA — Students from St Mary MacKillop College are aiming to raise $80,000 for the Cancer Council’s Relay for Life this weekend at their St Peter’s Campus. With two days left, the Class of 2026 has already gathered over $60,000, needing further community support to hit their target.
Instead of joining the main event at the AIS, the students will participate in a 12-hour walk on March 28 as part of the Relay Your Way initiative, according to the college. Jacqueline Heffernan, the new principal and a cancer survivor, emphasised the event’s personal significance, stating, “Relay for Life is a powerful way to bring hope, honour survivors, and support vital research.”
Heffernan praised the students’ commitment, noting, “Their fundraising efforts reflect not only their compassion but also their determination to make a meaningful difference.” Past classes have raised significant amounts, with over $75,000 in 2024 and over $100,000 in 2025. This year, the students are motivated by the stories of survivors and the memory of those who have lost their battle with cancer. The school community is rallying together to ensure that their efforts make a lasting impact.
In addition to fundraising, the event serves as an educational experience for the students, teaching them about the importance of community service and the impact of their contributions. The college has integrated this event into its curriculum, highlighting the values of empathy and social responsibility. Students are engaging in various activities to promote their cause, including social media campaigns, bake sales, and partnerships with local businesses.
Fundraising Tradition and Community Impact
St Mary MacKillop College has a strong tradition of supporting the Cancer Council, reflecting broader trends in community-driven fundraising efforts against cancer. The Relay for Life event helps fund crucial research and support for those affected by cancer, highlighting the importance of communal solidarity in tackling health challenges. The students’ efforts not only contribute to a significant cause but also inspire others in the community to participate and support cancer research initiatives. As the event approaches, excitement builds, with many eager to see the total funds raised and the positive impact it will have on the community and beyond.
Source: newshub.medianet.com.au
Last updated: 1 April 2026, 10:26 am
