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Unite & Fight Cancer – Martial Artists Benefit for Cancer

Proving just how widespread and varied the support for the Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) is, comes news of a huge martial arts demonstration and fundraising event at Ascot Vale tonight.

380 people will join in the fight against cancer with a meet and greet, martial arts demonstration and some fine dining at Happy Receptions.

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Organiser of the ACRF-endorsed event Catherine Tan explained she did not just want to “talk’’ about the fight against cancer but to “follow through as well.’’

“Last year I was suddenly struck by how many people around me, including my own family, personal friends and customers at our martial arts school, were all being affected by cancer,’’ she said.

“Rather than just talk about it I decided to act because I knew a lot of people would support me with a fund raiser. And this has indeed happened.’’

“There was not one specific cancer I wanted to target but all cancer”, she said. Tan said she did extensive research before deciding that the ACRF would be the beneficiary of her martial arts evening.

“I like the fact that with the ACRF all money raised, I mean every cent, goes to cancer research. That was the clincher. For me,” said Tan. She promised patrons a great night.

“A family member will perform on the night with the Chinese Cultural Centre’s Chinese Lion Dance Company, who are in high demand and who regularly perform at big events in Melbourne”, she said.

The evening, which is hosted by Tans Martial Arts Suppliers (Ringwood and East Brunswick), will also include several martial arts schools performing demonstrations.

ACRF Board member Mr Greg Camm, who is also Chief Executive of Melbourne’s Superpartners Pty Ltd, will speak on the night.

“Cancer is immune to economics and, despite the economic downturn, the Foundation has called for applications for grants in access of $1.5 million to fund breakthrough projects,’’ said Mr Camm.

“ACRF is funding great research across Australia, but none better than right here in Victoria.’’

Last month a cheque for $5 million was presented to a consortium of Melbourne’s leading cancer research institutions, taking the amount the ACRF has awarded in Victoria to more than $16 million. Institutions like St Vincent’s, Peter MacCallum, Ludwig, WEHI, Austin, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, The Royal Melbourne in the last few years,’’ he added.

Next week ACRF will give $800,000 will go to our most recent grant recipient – Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. This is the first instalment of a $2.5 million grant to help establish the ACRF Cancer Genomics Program providing new, enhanced technologies in gene screening and analysis. The focus of the research will be on prostate and breast cancer.”

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For more information on the Martial Arts night – contact Catherine Tan on 0413011166