A TOUCHING evening which bought close friends together at Bunbury's Dolphin Discovery Centre on Tuesday helped launch the 2015 Relay For Life.
Every year Bunbury bands together for the Cancer Council WA fundraiser and pledges to celebrate, remember and fight back against the disease that claims the lives of 3,500 people in Western Australia each year.
Radiowest presenter Doug Terrry put it best.
"Let's kick Cancer in the butt," he said.
Relay For Life Bunbury-Southwest Organising Committee Chairman Leigh Ritchie said there are 22 teams already signed on for this year's event and the fundraising activities they are organising add to the vibe of Bunbury.
WATCH: Highlights of Relay For Life Bunbury-Southwest 2013.
"The reason Relay For Life is such a special event is because it really makes a difference to the lives of so many," he said.
"Bunbury is the envy of other Relay For Life events and has been crowned the biggest regional fundraising country location.
"Now is the time to get involved and enjoy all the benefits Relay For Life has to offer."
While returning teams reacquainted themselves and new teams freely asked questions, the night was also a chance to reflect on some of the personal reasons why people commit to Relay For Life.
"Let's kick Cancer in the butt."
- Radiowest presenter Doug Terry
Dolphin Discovery Centre volunteer coordinator and dedicated member of the Dolphin Huggers Relay For Life team Jan Tierney, shared the personal story of her daughter Rachel's fight against throat cancer.
"Rachel was a beautiful sole who battled bravely for four years," she said.
"Each year I get to light her remembrance candle at the Relay and know that I am helping to make a difference."
The crowd also heard from #4 Norb team member Gail Benkesser whose husband Norb, a committed sprintcar driver, lost his battle with bowel cancer in 2011.
"The first year I joined the Bunbury Relay For Life we were slammed with torrential rain but I stayed out on the track in the early hours of the morning," she said.
"The thought that it was easier than being a cancer patient pushed me on and I am always thankful for the experience."
The evening was finished with a candlelight ceremony to remember those who have passed and to inspire everyone who is left to take up the baton.
This year Relay For Life Bunbury-South West will be held on Saturday, October 31 and Sunday, November 1.
To donate or get involved in the event visit relayforlife.org.au or email relaybunbury@gmail.com
