SWAN Hill Inner Wheel and Respect Alcheringa recently hosted their annual Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea (ABMT).
The events brought together community members to raise funds and awareness in the fight against cancer.
ABMT is a nationwide fundraiser supporting cancer research and essential services for patients.
So far this year, more than $8 million has been raised, with over 20,700 morning teas registered.
The Swan Hill Inner Wheel Club held its 17th annual ABMT fundraiser at member Jacq Silvester’s home in Kangaroo Lake on May 15.
The event attracted around 80 attendees and raised $1400 for Cancer Council.
“For 17 years we’ve been hosting an Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea,” said Inner Wheel secretary Lyn Ward.
“As the club has grown, we’ve been able to make substantial contributions to the Cancer Council.”
In recent years, the event has taken the form of relaxed garden parties in picturesque settings such as Riverside Park, the Grain Shed, and the banks of the Murray River.
Guests came from Swan Hill and surrounding districts, including some from as far as Echuca.
“Many have been touched by cancer in some way and wholeheartedly support these events,” Ms Ward said.
Attendees enjoyed a get-together in the garden, with vintage farm tools on display; including a standout old harvester.
A wide selection of homemade morning tea treats added to the welcoming atmosphere.
Raffles and prizes were donated by local supporters, including Brown Brothers Winery, a variety of plants, and a handcrafted wooden tray by local artisan Harry Silvester.
“Thank you to our hosts and to all who supported us on this day,” Ms Ward said.
“Raising $1400 helps advance research, more effective treatments, and provides vital resources that aid in early detection and cancer prevention in Australia.”
Respect Alcheringa in Swan Hill also hosted a Biggest Morning Tea event on Thursday, May 22.
Respect social care co-ordinator Chelsie Mott brought a sense of fun to the event by making it a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party theme.
“I wanted to create a fun and entertaining event that would spark conversation among residents and families,” Ms Mott said.
In the lead-up to the event, residents crafted their own Mad Hatter hats, which became a highlight on the day.
“The residents loved it,” Ms Mott said.
“It gave them something to look forward to, and it created some wonderful moments of joy and connection.”
