East Gippslanders are being encouraged to lace up and take part in the Mother’s Day Classic on Sunday, May 10, as the national fundraiser marks its 29th year supporting breast and ovarian cancer research.
The Bairnsdale event will be held at Howitt Park, with participants able to walk or run 5km or 10km along the Mitchell River in a community-focused morning aimed at raising funds and awareness.
Founded in 1998 with just 3000 participants in Melbourne and Sydney, the Mother’s Day Classic has grown into one of Australia’s most significant fundraising events, attracting up to 100,000 participants across more than 90 locations nationwide. To date, more than 1.8 million people have taken part, helping raise $50.8 million for life-saving research.
Mother’s Day Classic chief executive officer Zara Lawless said the event continues to grow, with regional and suburban participation increasing.
“We’re thrilled to see so many communities taking the lead and hosting their own events,” she said.
“Australians want to turn Mother’s Day into a moment of purpose, standing together in support of those impacted by breast and ovarian cancer.”
Since the event began, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer has improved from 84 per cent to 93 per cent, a change largely attributed to advances in research. However, challenges remain, with 61 Australians diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer each day and 12 lives lost.
In recent years, the fundraiser has expanded to support ovarian cancer research alongside breast cancer, recognising the urgent need for improved treatment and outcomes.
In Bairnsdale, the event will begin at 8.30am with registrations, followed by a 10km run at 9am and a 5km run and walk shortly after. The courses follow a scenic, mostly flat riverside route along the Mitchell River, making them suitable for all ages and abilities, including prams and wheelchairs.
Participants can expect a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, with parking available at Howitt Park, along with amenities including toilets, a coffee van and accessible facilities. Dogs on leads are also welcome.
Registrations are now open, with organisers encouraging locals to get involved and help make a difference this Mother’s Day.
For more information or to register, visit the Mother’s Day Classic website.
