Jarrod Bleijie has praised Kawana for its strong support of cancer awareness efforts.

It comes as the Kawana MP prepares to don purple and join the ‘Mad Hatters’ on Saturday in support of the Cancer Council’s Relay For Life at Kawana Waters State College.

“Many in our local community will know that my mother is a survivor of cancer and for years my family has proactively supported the Cancer Council in its fundraising efforts,” Mr Bleijie said.

“This year I will be taking part in my mother’s team, The Mad Hatters, and I’m impressed by the fundraising support we’ve received so far in Kawana,” he said.

Relay For Life is an overnight, community event where teams of up to 15 people keep a baton moving in a relay-style walk over 18 hours to raise funds for the Cancer Council.

According to Cancer Council statistics, every five minutes another Australian is diagnosed with cancer. While survival rates are improving every day, cancer remains a leading cause of death.

“That’s why it’s so important that we raise funds to fight cancer,” Mr Bleijie said.

He encouraged Kawana residents to join the event on Saturday.

“I applaud everyone who took part in Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea events today,” Mr Bleijie said.

“Due to Parliament sitting I was not able to attend Joy Haywood’s Cuppa for Cancer held annually at Currimundi, as I have in previous years, but my wife Sally was pleased to represent me and present a $500 cheque to support this great cause,” Mr Bleijie said.

“Joy is one of Kawana’s great community champions and a real ambassador for the Cancer Council and I thank her for the good work she does each year.

“I’m told Joy surpassed her fundraising goal and was thrilled with the turnout. Great work Kawana!”

For more information on how you can support Relay For Life, visit www.relayforlife.org.au