Bundaberg Sugar Cane2Coral committee members are hanging up their hats and their running shoes after a successful five years operating the decade-long event.
The news of the disbandment came after today's presentation at the Civic Centre, with organiser's distributing $47,450 to local organisations, schools and charities from the 2019 event's fundraising success.
Committee president Jason Pascoe said the event was held in August and celebrated 10 years of fun, fitness and fundraising.
“This massive fundraising achievement brings our 10-year total to $530 562,” he said.
“We are very thankful to everyone involved, from the volunteers to the committee and the participants; it was an absolutely beautiful day that Bundaberg put on for this event.”
Today’s presentation at the Civic Centre included the distribution of funds to organisations including Bundaberg Life Saving Surf Club, Ronald McDonald House, Bargara Lions, Bundaberg SES and Sunrise Rotary.
Bundaberg Sugar Cane2Coral 2019
Jason said the Bundaberg Sugar Cane2Coral was well-supported, with 1806 people taking part in 2019.
“This includes a total of 46 teams who were registered for the event,” he said.
“Out of those participants, 50 per cent ran or walked in the 4km track, 40 per cent in the 10km track and 10 per cent toughed it out in the half marathon.”
In the decade the event had been running, Jason said close to 100 people had participated every single year.
He said in 2019, the 1806 participants ranged in age and fitness capability but all had one thing in common, the fun and enjoyment gained from a day out in the community.
“We had all ages in the event, from one year of age to 92 years of age,” he said.
“More than 30 per cent of participants were from outside the Bundaberg Region, which is absolutely fantastic to see.
“It was just a great day in Bundaberg with many smiling faces seen.”
It's been 10 years of fitness, fundraising and fun for Bundaberg Sugar Cane2Coral participants.
Bittersweet moment for committee
Jason said the current committee had been together for five years and while they had enjoyed every minute of their Cane2Coral endeavors, it was time to pass the baton on.
“We just think it's time to get some new people involved, some new ideas and some new energy,” he said.
“We have absolutely loved being involved but it is a lot of work so this is a great opportunity for another group to take it to another level.”
Jason said during their five years, the committee had been extremely dedicated along with the many volunteers and the community.
“They make it what it is; we have really enjoyed being part of this whole journey,” he said.
Expressions of interest for a new committee are now invited with Jason stating inquiries can be made through the Cane2Coral website.
“What we would like to do is in the next two months speak to people and groups to see who out there is interest and then do a proper handover before we step down in January next year,” he said.
