Southern Forest Steppers raise more than $137,000 for cancer

The Southern Forest Steppers have raised more than $137,000 for women’s cancer research at the Harry Perkins Institute for Cancer Research.

The group’s most recent fundraising event was the Walk for Women’s Cancer in Perth where 47 members walked 35 to 42km.

About 1100 people walked in the event on Saturday to raise more than $1.5 million.

Manjimup showed their support by illuminating the Brockman Street light installation in the Steppers’ neon green colours prior to their walk.

“It was incredible and amazing to see everyone at the walk,” Southern Forest Steppers’ Jackie Plummer said.

She said the Harry Perkins Institute was chosen for its locality, extensive treatments and equipment they offer with the funds raised.

“The hardest thing for country communities like ours is when we battle cancer we have to travel far for treatment,” she said.

“So it’s very hard for us, that’s why we try to raise as much money as possible, so we can get treatments closer.

“The Harry Perkins Institute have gifted an intraoperative radiation therapy machine to the St John of God Hospital in Subiaco, which usually has only one in each State.

“So money doesn’t just go to Harry Perkins to just research cancer treatments, but also goes to machines for hospitals and accessibility.”

The group raised money through several fundraising events including a pop-up shop ($22,000), a Taste of the West Raffle ($5000), a One Step Closer event ($35,600), and an event at Manjimup Tigers Football Club ($15,600), along with several sausage sizzles and raffles.

Ms Plummer encouraged more people to join the Steppers.

“If anybody wants to reach out and be a part of the Steppers, everyone is welcome,” she said.