This year’s relay will be held on the training field at Baddeley Park, due to the possibility of Cessnock hosting an Asian Cup team later in the year.

Council wants the playing surface in tip-top shape in case a team chooses to hold its pre-competition camp in Cessnock.

Due to the condensed space, camping spots will be limited, and the committee strongly advises anyone wishing to camp overnight to set up their tent on the Friday (October 17) to secure a spot.

“We understand council’s position; the possibility of having an Asian Cup team in Cessnock is a great thing for Cessnock,” Relay For Life committee co-chair Rebecca Gillon said.

“It will mean downsizing the event slightly, but won’t stop us from putting on another great event and raising more much-needed funds for the Cancer Council.” 

This year’s relay will start at 1pm on Saturday, October 18 with a street parade from the corner of Railway Street, down Vincent Street to the sportsground.

The street parade is a new addition to the Relay and something that the committee is very excited about.

Street parade coordinator Gemma Trudgett said the parade will add to the awareness that Relay For Life creates in the community.

“I think it will bring our community together to celebrate survivors, remember the ones we have lost and continue to fight back against cancer,” she said.

“The parade is going to bring awareness to our community with our local schools and community groups wearing different colours symbolising different cancers.

“I think the parade is going to add a lot more happiness to the relay as well as many new faces.”

There will be transport for people who may not be able to walk the distance.

The official opening of the relay will take place at 2pm, with cancer survivors and carers invited to take part in the first lap.

Health information market stalls, kids’ activities and live entertainment will feature on the day, along with the traditional candlelight ceremony of remembrance at dusk.

Teams are encouraged to walk throughout the night until the relay wraps up at 7am. Midnight games will be back this year as a great way to keep the momentum going.

Register your team today at www.relayforlife.org.au.

See Cessnock Relay For Life's Facebook page for more information.

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Have your photo taken for advocacy campaign

Cessnock Relay For Life participants are encouraged to have their photo taken at the Cancer Council tent to show their support for the Saving Life 2015: Change Starts Here campaign.

The Cancer Council NSW campaign aims to show the future NSW Government that change is needed around five cancer-related issues: increasing palliative care services; addressing the selling of tobacco; chemotherapy co-payments; access to care coordination; and improving cancer services for Aboriginal people.

Hunter Cancer Action Network member Kelly Moylan says Cessnock locals can put these issues on the agenda of politicians by getting involved in the photo activity at the Relay for Life.

“Over 36,000 people in NSW each year are diagnosed with cancer and 13,000 lose their lives; and that needs to change,” Ms. Moylan said.

“We need everyone at Relay for Life to spread the word and help show that we expect our future Government to act on these issues.

“By being part of the photo activity, Relay for Life participants are showing that they want the future NSW Government to take action to reduce the number of people who hear the words ‘you’ve got cancer’, and ensure that those who have cancer get the care they need.”

For more information, go to www.cancercouncil.com.au/savinglife.