mmg.com.au

It’s a new date, but it will be back.

The Seymour Relay for Life event is changing seasons this year, and will take place in September at Kings Park.

It’s a change from the usual late March-early April but ensures Kings Park is available, and in a better capacity than before.

The seventh annual event — which raised $89000 from 700 participants last year — will run from 3pm on September 21 to 10am the following day.

Volunteer committee member Robyn Chivers said that for the first time, team sites will be set up inside the oval, meaning walkers will be able to enjoy the atmosphere from those sites as they walk.

‘‘Relay for Life is a community event, and as such, it changes with the needs of the community,’’ she said.

‘‘This means that in 2013 we have decided to change the date. We’re looking forward to being able to improve how we use the venue and, by doing so, continue to grow the event. The new dates will give us security in the coming years and mean that the activities and atmosphere for participants will be better than ever.’’

Without, of course, losing its purpose.

‘‘Each year 166 residents in the Shire of Mitchell are diagnosed with cancer so taking part in Seymour Relay for Life is a chance to support them as well as the many others affected by cancer from the region over the years,’’ Mrs Chivers said.

‘‘At the heart of the event, Relay for Life brings the community together to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost and fight back against cancer.’’

Cancer Council co-ordinator Emmett Bronca said organisers wanted to acknowledge the support of the Kings Park committee of management in getting a secure date.