The Hunter community has once again shown the incredible power of coming together for a cause that touches so many lives.
On Saturday 11 July, thousands of people dressed in pink and gathered at Newcastle Racecourse for the 17th annual Clubs In The Community Pink Race Day, creating an unforgettable day of community spirit, generosity and hope. Thanks to the support of local clubs, businesses, volunteers, sponsors, donors and attendees, this year's event achieved a record-breaking fundraising result of more than $232,000, making it the most successful Pink Race Day in the event's history.
The event also marked an extraordinary milestone, with Pink Race Day surpassing $1 million raised over its lifetime in support of the Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation (HBCF). What began as a grassroots initiative in 2009 has grown into one of the Hunter region's most recognised charity events, helping ensure local people affected by breast cancer have access to the support they need, when they need it most.
Nearly 3,000 people attended this year's event, with venues across the racecourse selling out as the community embraced the opportunity to celebrate, connect and raise funds for local families affected by breast cancer. Guests enjoyed a full day of racing, entertainment, fundraising activities, auctions, raffles and plenty of pink-themed fun, all while helping make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
The success of Pink Race Day would not be possible without the longstanding support of Clubs In The Community, local clubs from across the Hunter and Newcastle Racecourse. Their commitment over the past 17 years has helped create an event that continues to grow in both impact and community participation.
Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation General Manager, Louise Ross, said the result highlighted the remarkable generosity of the Hunter community.
"The Clubs In The Community Pink Race Day is the biggest fundraiser on the Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation calendar and plays a vital role in ensuring we can continue supporting hundreds of people across the Hunter as they navigate a breast cancer diagnosis. Surpassing the remarkable milestone of $1 million raised over the lifetime of this event is a testament to the ongoing commitment of our local clubs and community, and the difference we can make together."
The funds raised through Pink Race Day allow HBCF to continue delivering practical support services at no cost to local clients. These services include transport to treatment, house cleaning, lawn maintenance, financial assistance, wellness programs, counselling support and many other services designed to lessen the burden of a breast cancer diagnosis.
Behind the scenes, an army of volunteers, supporters and donors worked tirelessly to make the day possible. From selling raffle tickets and managing fundraising activities to assisting guests and creating a welcoming atmosphere, their contribution played a significant role in the event's success. More than just a fundraiser, Pink Race Day is a celebration of community, resilience and the shared belief that nobody in the Hunter should face breast cancer alone.
As HBCF reflects on another incredible Pink Race Day, the Foundation extends its heartfelt thanks to every person, club, business, sponsor, volunteer and attendee who contributed to this year's record-breaking result.
Together, we are making a real difference for local families when they need it most.
Thank you for helping us ensure that no one in our community faces breast cancer alone. 💗

