Old film theatre for cancer support

The Bunyip/Garfield and District Cancer Support Group was out in force to raise awareness and funds over recent weeks.

The group recently gathered for an old film theatre afternoon attracting about 30 people.

Coordinator Lyn Treble said the group, which would likely fold next year after 30-odd years, praised members as well as local young people doing great things to raise vital funds for the Cancer Council and Breast Care Network.

Ms Treble said the Longwarry Union Church also conducted a special morning tea event attracting about 80 people.

Balloons filled the church with McGrath Foundation Warragul breast care nurse Annette Houlahan addressing those gathered.

“We wanted to promote the McGrath Foundation because I think they are doing wonderful work throughout Victoria,” she said.

“It’s j ust so needed. We could do with a lot more.”

Ms Treble also praised the work of Bakers Delight i n Centrepoint Arcade, Warragul to raise money for breast cancer and donate food for special morning and afternoon teas.

“I think they do wonderful work with BCNA,” she said.

Ms Treble is an inaugural member of the Bunyip/Garfield and District Cancer Support Group which was established in 1986.

A breast cancer survivor, she has served as coordinator since 1990.

“This group has served the community as a continual support group, gathering as a group every month, with much visitation and support in between on a non-medical basis,” she said.

“There’s been so much support throughout the area. It’s been a good group. Volunteering is ver y rewarding.”

She said the group, aff iliated with the Cancer Council, would probably fold next year but might still gather i nformally with many l ong-standing friendships to continue.

With one in eight women to be diagnosed with breast cancer by the time they turn 85, local residents can support the Breast Cancer Network by donating online at www.bcna.org.au.