The launch event gives an insight into what happens at the actual Relay, which will be held at Baddeley Park on March 20 and 21 next year.

Cessnock’s first two Relay For Life efforts have raised a combined total of more than $180,000 for the Cancer Council, none of which would have been possible without the hard work of the volunteer organising committee.

Chaired by cancer survivor Ian Howson and his wife Sue for the third year running, the committee consists of many people whose lives have been touched in one way or another by cancer.

Ian and Sue’s daughters, Lisa and Katrina, are committee members, with Lisa involved in team development and Katrina handling ceremonies.

Katrina has been busy planning Friday night’s launch event, which will feature a combination of the Relay’s “Celebrate, Remember and Fight Back” ceremonies, a light supper, and entertainment by Mel’s Karaoke.

This year’s special guest speaker is Cancer Council NSW CEO Andrew Penman, who will address how the funds raised will be distributed to the Cessnock community.

Also attending will be the event’s new major sponsors Brian and Fay McGuigan and 2010 Cessnock Relay For Life patron Blaize Tsakissiris.

Katrina said the launch is an opportunity for people to come along and get an idea of what Relay is about, learn important dates in the lead-up, sign up their teams and get to know the committee.

“It’s a night to celebrate where we’ve come from and where we’re heading to,” she said.

New to the Cessnock Relay For Life committee this year is Sarah Short, taking up the position of secretary.

Sarah, who lost her mother Maria Hosie to breast cancer 10 years ago, said she is passionate about cancer charities and decided to assist the Cessnock committee after attending the 2009 Relay in March.

Sarah’s sister Kayla Hosie and mother-in-law Caroline Short have also joined the committee as activities and mission coordinators.

Sarah said the people of Cessnock should get behind the Relay to “have fun, raise some money and help a good cause”.

Anyone interested in Relay For Life is encouraged to attend the launch on Friday night at Cessnock City Bowling Club, starting at 6pm.

For more information, phone Ian or Sue on 4990 7379 or visit www.relayforlife.org.au and follow the links to “Cessnock 2010”.