There are many individuals around Australia who have helped to raise funds for cancer research. Together they have proved that you can turn virtually anything you enjoy doing into a fundraiser. Here are some of their stories…

Fundraising Success Stories

The Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) extends its sincere thanks to all of the following people, for their mighty fundraising efforts!

Simone raises $12,000 in memory of her grandfather...

Simone Caruana’s grandfather lost his battle with cancer in 2003. On the anniversary of his passing, Simone paid tribute by organising a ‘dinner dance’ fundraiser in Adelaide, the proceeds from which went to the ACRF. Simone raised over $12,000 on the evening, which was attended by over 300 guests, including ACRF Fundraising Coordinator Helen Leonard. "This was a fantastic effort, especially given it was Simone's first fundraiser!" said Leonard. Guests were entertained by Master of Ceremonies / comedian / impersonator Sebastian Scott, and then danced the night away to the sounds of a harpist, bands and local DJ! An auction and raffle gave everyone the chance to play a part in the search for a cure for cancer.

Extra whipped cream benefits ACRF...

Legendary coffee chain Starbucks whipped its stores up into a fundraising frenzy recently! Starbucks customers were encouraged to ‘customise’ their favourite Starbucks beverages by adding extra shots of expresso, syrup, topping or whipped cream. The retail price of the ‘additions’ was donated to the individual store’s charity of choice. Three NSW Starbucks stores chose the ACRF as their beneficiary - Martin Place, 115 Pitt Street and Circular Quay. Together, they raised a fantastic $1656.50!

Ben runs for fun and funds...

Ben Le Masurier loves a challenge! In September 2004, he participated in his first marathon, the gruelling 42km Sydney Marathon! Ben chose to give all sponsorship donations he’d received to run in the event to the ACRF. In addition, he dedicated the race to the memory of his dear friend, who died from cancer the Wednesday before the marathon. “It made it so much more rewarding,” said Ben, who is now contemplating participating in a triathlon for the ACRF.

Bluey and Johnno turn 60!

Ray Jenvey and Graham Johnson, affectionately known by their friends as “Bluey” and “Johnno”, recently celebrated their 60th birthdays, and very generously directed donations to the ACRF in lieu of gifts. Over 200 guests attended the boys’ birthday bash - including ACRF representative Jo Williams - which raised a whopping $5,750 for cancer research. “It was an absolute pleasure to meet two such charismatic, fun-loving people,” said Williams. “It was a fantastic night. Ray and Graham obviously mean a great deal to a lot of people.” Happy birthday Ray and Graham, from everyone at the ACRF!

Nathan proves he’s a born leader…

As part of a school leadership program, Year 7 student Nathan Tait (from Henry Kendall High School in Gosford, NSW) was given the task of organising a charity fundraiser. Nathan decided to run a raffle, approaching many organisations for donations. He then very kindly chose the ACRF to be the recipient of the funds raised. Nathan and the Foundation would like to thank all those who donated prizes, including the West Sydney Razorbacks, Newcastle Knights, Parramatta Eels, St George-Illawarra Dragons and Cronulla Sharks rugby league clubs, Sydney Turf Club, Coca-Cola, the Reptile Park, Taronga Zoo, Scholastics, Australia's Wonderland, Hoyts Cinemas, 2GO Radio Station, Hunter Irrigations, Gosford Ten Pin Bowling, La Porchetta Restaurant and Nathan's grandfather Kevin, uncle Paul and his parents, Michael and Susan. On behalf of the Trustees and everyone at the Foundation, we congratulate Nathan on a terrific job and sincerely thank him for the $1300 raised.

Cait shaves her head for a good cause ...

Cait Millar’s fundraising total has grown faster than her hair! Nine-year-old Cait, from South Australia, shaved off all her hair to raise money for the ACRF. With help from her family, school, community and local radio station SAFM, the event was a major success and Cait's final tally stood at $2,672.35. Congratulations Cait!

The Order of the Eastern Star Mt Beulah Chapter No 5 ...

The OES continues to raise a substantial amount of funds for the ACRF, recently presenting a cheque for $1,800 to the Foundation. The money was raised by collections taken at the monthly Chapter meetings, a fundraising luncheon, a mock ball and dinner, raffles and lucky door prizes.

Ian pays tribute to his dad ...

In September 2003, Ian Hill held a fundraiser in the name of his father, the late Mr John S. Hill. Staged at Blacktown Olympic Park, the evening commenced with a tribute baseball game as the curtain raiser and was followed by a dinner, auctions and raffles.

You can help us

If you are thinking about running your own ACRF fundraiser, please contact us on 1300 884 988 or email info@acrf.com.au.

The power to remove cancer is in your hands

To make a credit card donation over the telephone, please call 1300 884 988 from anywhere in Australia for the cost of a local call.