Ladies show some heart

By Tania Martin
WOMEN from across the state put on their finest dresses and pulled out their hats for an Oaks Day with a twist in Sherbrooke.
The day wasn’t about going to the races or celebrating the Spring Racing Carnival but was a fundraiser for cancer research.
Ninety-five women both young and old came from as far as Benalla to enjoy a three-course lunch, fashion parade and some champagne while helping to raise money for the Cancer Council Victoria.
The luncheon was organised by the Hearts of the Hills group, which was formed 14 years ago after two close friends, Neil Cornell and Wendy Baxter, died of cancer.
The Oaks Day luncheon, which raised more than $1900 for cancer research, was dedicated to both Wendy and Neil.
Neil’s wife, Michelle Cornell of Tecoma, said the luncheon was a truly beautiful way to remember people who have died from cancer.
Mrs Cornell said it is also important to have fundraisers like the luncheon so research for cancer cures could continue.
Wendy’s mother, Joan Jones, said her daughter would have been proud to be remembered in such a way.
But Ms Jones said more needed to be done to help raise money and awareness for cancer research.
Meanwhile, special guest and cancer survivor Marlene Dillon of Mordialloc was excited about being involved in the day.
Marlene has survived both breast and cervical cancer and says more needs to be done to raise awareness of the importance of researching a cure.
Luncheon organiser Margaret Campion said the day was a great success and she hoped to hold another Oaks Day event next year to raise even more money.