Cancer Council ACT, Australia's Biggest Morning Tea, Government House [Her Excellency Mrs Linda Hurley]

[As delivered]

Good morning, everyone. David and I are pleased to welcome you to Government House for this important event on our national calendar.

I would like to begin by acknowledging the traditional owners of the land on which we meet, the Ngunnawal People, and pay my respects to their Elders, past and present, and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders gathered here today.

It is wonderful to have you at Yarralumla for Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, one of the most well-known and popular fundraising events for cancer in the country.

You are one of millions of Australians who have come together ‘over a cuppa’ for nearly 30 years in support of those affected by cancer. Thank you for doing that.

Your kindness, generosity and support continue to make an enormous difference to the lives of people living with cancer and their families.

The Biggest Morning Tea is one of Cancer Council ACT’s major fundraising campaigns.

The funds raised help Cancer Council ACT continue its life-saving research, prevention, advocacy and support programs.

An important part of this annual event is the announcement of the Cancer Council ACT Research Grant Recipients. I look forward to participating in the presentation ceremony shortly. The Recipients are incredibly talented and amazing people.

Since 2003, Cancer Council ACT has contributed more than two million dollars to local cancer research, funding 23 research projects including those we are announcing today.

The funds raised through the Biggest Morning Tea help Cancer Council ACT in other ways too. They include through the Wig service, the Enriching Survivorship program, and the 13 11 20 phone line for those needing information about their cancer journey.

I understand that calls to 13 11 20 this year have doubled, further highlighting the importance of Cancer Council ACT’s work and the valuable contribution made by its qualified staff.

Just think for a moment about the state of mind of someone who has received a cancer diagnosis or is supporting someone who has received a diagnosis, and is reaching out via the phone line for help.

They are at a turning point in their lives. Perhaps they are despairing.

That is why we are here today.

To help the more than 1,600 people in the ACT diagnosed with cancer every year, by supporting Cancer Council ACT and the Biggest Morning Tea. And to help shine a light on Cancer Council ACT’s passion and focus for a cancer-free future.

As Patron of Cancer Council ACT, I – with David – want to thank you, and all involved with the organisation, for your tireless efforts in working to achieve a world without cancer.

Thank you for your kindness and for selflessly helping those living with cancer, and their families, to live better lives.

Your actions help make our community stronger.

Thank you.

[Ends]