By Mitchell Clarke
Over 500 children have put on their runners and come together to raise more than $45,000 for Monash Children’s Hospital Cancer Centre.
While the final figure is not yet confirmed, organisers of the annual Kids Fun Run with Thomas are confident they will beat the $46,000 raised from the 2018 event.
The event was organised by the Emerald and District Rotary Club and was held on Sunday 24 November at the Gembrook Puffing Billy station.
Rotary chair and event organiser John Henderson said the event highlighted the great community atmosphere.
“We really appreciate the local community coming together to support such a worthy cause,” Mr Henderson said.
“It’s just so heart-warming when so many different people and families support this and bring their children to take part in the event.”
As part of the final funds raised, almost $20,000 came through child fundraisers, with the top five participants raising $6500 together.
“These kids are doing so much good and they’re having so much fun while doing it,” Mr Henderson said.
“The highlight is seeing the little one’s faces light up with joy and the smile on their face when you see them racing against Thomas.”
The event was made possible with the support of participants and sponsors including the Emerald Rotary, Puffing Billy Railway, Ferntree Gully Motors, Emerald Co-op, the Wholesome Food Company and That’s Right Bookkeeping.
“All came together to help and support children at the cancer centre and show their love in a positive way – kids helping kids,” he said.
“After a short break, we’ll get back into it and start planning for next year’s event.”
