Last night in Melbourne, Olympic legend and inspirational BCNA ambassador Raelene Boyle kicked up her heels with the Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Victorian Premier Ted Baillieu, along with the who’s who of Melbourne. The spectacular party celebrated her 60th birthday milestone and 15 years of survival since being diagnosed with breast cancer in 1996.
The event, held at the Crown Palladium was a black tie affair but the hot pink of Breast Cancer Network Australia was proudly on display and matched the brightness of the mood in the room.
Despite the serious nature of breast cancer, party goers were out in force to celebrate survival and living well.
The night was truly a celebration of Raelene’s achievements and was an opportunity for Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA), and its growing membership, to say thank you for the contribution Raelene has made to the organisation.
Raelene’s 50th birthday event, held ten years ago at the same location, is still talked about within the walls of Crown for the easy laughter and pumping dance floor which lasted into the wee hours of the morning, however it was not to be outdone last night – the enthusiasm of ten years ago was matched with delight.
A thousand guests, including The Honourable Julia Gillard, Prime Minister of Australia, Victorian Premier Ted Baillieu and many of BCNA’s members, enjoyed live entertainment and a public and silent auction, with all money raised going to BCNA.
Paying tribute to the guest of honour, Prime Minister Gillard said: “Your life has touched many people and this little gathering tonight is a snapshot of the wider esteem in which you are held. Esteem that was born in your career on the running track and grows with every day that you devote to this strong passion of yours, helping women as they journey through breast cancer.”
Victoria’s Premier shared the sentiments of Raelene’s hometown state: “All Victorians will want to wish Raelene a Happy 60th Birthday. A living legend who has inspired countless Australians with her personal story and tireless efforts to raise awareness and support for those affected by breast cancer."
AFL legend and BCNA supporter Shane Crawford, who last year ran an extraordinary 760km marathon over days to raise awareness and funds for BCNA, was heartfelt when personally offering his birthday congratulations, and paying tribute to Raelene.
With her characteristic irreverent humour, Raelene’s candid reflections on her life, and its challenges had the thousand strong crowd by the heart. There was no question: Raelene Boyle is happy to be alive and is grateful for her now good health, both physically and mentally. “I’m very pleased to be here and celebrating a birthday that at one point I wasn’t sure I’d see – and that is the message - for the majority, with the right support, you can live well after breast cancer. I’m looking forward to my 70th!: said Raelene.
Other guests included track and field greats Marjorie Jackson, Herb Elliott and John Landy, industry leaders Naomi Milgrom (Sussan Group), Sue Morphet (Pacific Brands) and Roger and Lesley Gillespie (Bakers Delight), BCNA Board members Terry Bracks and Ron Dewhurst, and media personalities including Eddie McGuire, Cal Wilson, Beverley O’Connor and Caroline Wilson.
Heartfelt messages from fellow Olympian Cathy Freeman and close friend and co-commentator Bruce McAvaney, delighted the birthday girl and the crowd. McAvaney appeared later in the night to offer his congratulations personally and to share in the celebrations following his Friday night football commitment.
Funds raised through the event, still being tallied, will assist BCNA in its important work supporting all Australians affected by breast cancer.
About Breast Cancer Network Australia
Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) is the national voice of all Australians personally affected by breast cancer, representing more than 294 Member Groups and over 57,000 individuals. We are represented by the Pink Lady silhouette, which reflects our key focus – women diagnosed with breast cancer. BCNA’s mission is to inform, empower, represent and link together Australians affected by breast cancer.
The women, who are our members, are the human faces and stories behind breast cancer. BCNA works to ensure that women diagnosed with breast cancer, and their families, receive the very best information, treatment, care and support possible – no matter who they are or where they live.
To request photographs from the event or an interview with Raelene Boyle please contact:
Julie Reilly - Media Manager - Breast Cancer Network Australia
P: 03 9813 0728 M: 0417 545 986 E: jreilly@bcna.org.au
Downloads
- Media release.pdf (PDF, 85.34 KB)
