Benalla couple, and Sunshine Walk ambassadors, Sunnie and Richard Bull are looking forward to its next event, after two years operating virtually.
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Mr and Mrs Bull took on the role after Sunnie received treatment for breast cancer at the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre last year.
While she was still undergoing radiotherapy, friends of the couple organised a team called Sunnie’s Squad to walk 20km, and successfully raised almost $22,000.
“The initial fundraising target was set at $2000, so we were just amazed how our community in Benalla rallied to support this wonderful cause,” Mrs Bull said.
“We are so lucky to have the cancer centre in our area and we as a family will be forever grateful for everything it’s done for us.”
Organisers have high hopes that communities throughout the north-east can come together for the annual Sunshine Walk this November.
As well as offering a DIY option, where participants can complete a route of their choice, the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre fundraiser will include five, 10 and 20km walks at Albury’s Noreuil Park.
Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund board member Di Thomas said the first Sunshine Walk was held at Noreuil Park in 2019, but COVID-19 meant participants had had to complete the walk in their own communities since.
“That actually worked out really well for some people because the cancer centre covers such a wide area and we had teams take part in towns as far away as Corowa, Yarrawonga and Bright,” Ms Thomas said.
“So we still want to offer that flexibility to allow people to do the walk in their own community, or to take part in the main event in Albury.”
The Sunshine Walk has raised more than $650,000 for the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund in three years.
It is held as part of a week-long campaign, Sunshine Week, which encourages businesses, schools and community groups to host a fundraising event between October 31 and November 6.
The Sunshine Walk will be held on Sunday, November 6. To register, visit sunshinewalk.org.au